Minnesota’s Corrections Department Challenges DHS Claims Over Immigration Enforcement

Minnesota’s Corrections Department Challenges DHS Claims Over Immigration Enforcement

The Trump administration recently accused Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey of orchestrating a resistance against Immigration and Customs Enforcement activities. This accusation came in response to statements from the Minnesota Department of Corrections that the Department of Homeland Security misrepresented the state’s practices regarding illegal immigration.

Earlier in the week, DHS called upon both Walz and Frey to honor federal immigration detainers concerning over 1,300 undocumented immigrants. The federal agency alleged that Minnesota officials had released nearly 470 criminal undocumented individuals onto the streets of Minneapolis. In reaction, Walz’s office labeled DHS’s allegations as “categorically false,” asserting that the state does respect federal immigration detainers, which serve to hold undocumented individuals in custody until ICE can take them.

On Thursday, the Minnesota DOC reiterated Walz’s position, stating DHS’s claims were not only “categorically false” but also “unsupported by facts and deeply irresponsible.” They emphasized that coordination with ICE agents occurs consistently when individuals in custody have active detainers.

Understanding the Immigration Detainer Issue

The Minnesota Department of Corrections articulated its commitment to honoring all federal and local detainers, including those issued by ICE. A representative stated, “DHS’s assertion that 1,360 non-U.S. citizens are in Minnesota’s state custody is inexplicable. In fact, the state’s total prison population is around 8,000, with only 207 individuals, or less than three percent, being non-U.S. citizens.”

The Minnesota DOC added that 84 individuals with ICE detainers had been released in 2025, with prior notification to ICE and coordination of custody transfers when requested. This interaction underscores the DOC’s commitment to procedural transparency and collaboration with federal officials.

Claims and Counterclaims

According to the DOC, DHS has not clarified which jurisdictions or systems supported their data, suggesting that the figures do not align with DOC records or reflect the realities of Minnesota’s prison system. Meanwhile, the Trump administration maintains its stance, with DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin asserting that both Walz and Frey are facilitating organized resistance against federal law enforcement.

In a statement to Fox News Digital, McLaughlin stated, “As DHS indicated, nearly 470 criminal undocumented immigrants, including violent offenders, have been released into communities across Minnesota. We have more than 1,360 active detainers on undocumented individuals in custody across all jurisdictions in the state.” She has urged Governor Walz and other officials to reconsider their approach to ICE detainers.

Local Reactions and Adjustments

In the wake of a recent fatal shooting involving ICE officers in Minneapolis, tensions have escalated. Mayor Frey publicly declared his opposition to ICE’s presence, exclaiming that federal agents should “get the f—- out” of his city. He has since issued an executive order prohibiting federal agents from utilizing city property for operations. Furthermore, local officials have made efforts to enhance protections for undocumented immigrants through stronger city separation ordinances.

Additionally, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison previously released a formal opinion asserting that state law prohibits state and local law enforcement from detaining individuals solely on the basis of an ICE civil detainer. This legal interpretation reflects a significant stance within state government on handling immigration issues.

The Risks of Non-Compliance

The potential consequences of not adhering to ICE detainers have become more evident in recent months. A concerning incident in December involved an undocumented immigrant in Northern Virginia, who was released from custody and subsequently committed murder the next day. Such incidents raise questions about the broader implications of local policies on community safety.

Ongoing Investigations into Officials

On Friday, reports emerged that federal prosecutors are investigating both Governor Walz and Mayor Frey over allegations of hindering law enforcement efforts related to immigration enforcement. These sources indicated that the investigation remains in its initial stages, leaving the possibility of criminal charges uncertain for now.

Implications for Minnesota’s Political Landscape

The unfolding dispute between Minnesota officials and the federal government highlights a broader struggle in balancing state and federal immigration policies. The friction illustrates contrasting approaches to immigration enforcement, defining the local political landscape as Minnesota navigates its responsibilities and the safety of its communities.