ICE Agents Storm Minnesota Home, Dragging Undressed Man into Snow
A recent incident in Minnesota has drawn significant attention, highlighting tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in the United States. A 56-year-old Hmong man, ChongLy Thao, also known as Scott, was forcibly detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents at his St. Paul home amidst a targeted raid.
Incident Details
On January 18, 2026, officers broke down Thao’s door, armed and ready, apprehending him while he wore only shorts and Crocs. This aggressive approach left him feeling fearful and humiliated. Thao was dragged out into the snow, where he was without proper clothing in temperatures that plummeted to 14 degrees Fahrenheit (around minus 10 degrees Celsius).
Background
Thao has been a U.S. citizen since 1991 after emigrating from Laos, accompanied by his parents in 1974. His family requested a Hmong interpreter during the incident. Despite the emotional and physical distress he experienced, he was later returned home without explanation or apology.
Reasons for the Raid
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that the operation aimed to investigate two convicted sex offenders believed to be residing at Thao’s address. Despite this, Thao did not have any connection to these individuals. A DHS spokeswoman clarified that all individuals present during such law enforcement operations are typically detained for safety reasons.
- Targeted individuals described as “criminal illegal aliens” from Laos.
- One of the individuals had previously lived at Thao’s residence but had since moved.
Legal Developments
Following the incident, a U.S. District Judge in Minnesota issued an injunction against some aggressive tactics employed by the Trump administration regarding immigration enforcement. The ruling aimed to prevent actions that could intimidate citizens from exercising their rights to protest.
Public Reaction
The incident has led to widespread concern regarding the conduct of federal law enforcement. Thao’s family condemned the raid as “unnecessary, degrading, and deeply traumatizing.” Images of the event circulated on social media, amplifying criticism of perceived excesses in immigration enforcement.
Concluding Thoughts
The incident raises important questions about civil rights and the methods used by immigration enforcement officers. Thao reflected on his experience, asking, “If this is going to turn out to be America, what are we doing here?” His story encapsulates the ongoing debate surrounding immigration policy in the U.S.
