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President Donald Trump received unexpected news on Friday when a federal judge limited ICE operations in Minnesota just a day after he praised her publicly.
The case arose from a lawsuit filed by Minnesota against the aggressive tactics used by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during protests in Minneapolis. Tensions grew following the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old mother of three, who was shot at close range through her car window while trying to drive away from federal agents.
Trump Praises Judge Before Ruling
U.S. District Judge Kate Menendez, a Biden appointee, initially delayed her ruling to allow the Justice Department time to respond. Trump took to Truth Social to praise her, calling her a “highly respected judge.” He claimed that ICE would continue its operations to remove “some of the most violent and vicious criminals” from Minnesota.
Judge Limits ICE Authority
On Friday, Judge Menendez issued her ruling, sharply limiting ICE’s tactics. Her order prohibits federal agents from:
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Retaliating against peaceful protesters, including those observing Operation Metro Surge.
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Arresting or detaining individuals engaging in peaceful protest.
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Using pepper spray or similar nonlethal tools on peaceful demonstrators.
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Stopping or detaining drivers and passengers without reasonable suspicion of obstructing federal agents.
These restrictions address concerns raised by the shooting of Renee Nicole Good and aim to prevent future excessive force incidents.
Implications for ICE Operations
The ruling is a major check on federal enforcement actions in Minnesota. It emphasizes the protection of peaceful protestors while limiting the authority of ICE agents. Legal experts say this could affect how federal agencies conduct operations in other states facing public unrest.
Menendez’s decision highlights the ongoing tension between federal law enforcement and local governments seeking to maintain order without escalating violence.
