Minnesota Judge Warns Trump’s ICE Director: ‘Court’s Patience Is Over’
A federal judge in Minnesota has issued a significant warning to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) acting director Todd Lyons. U.S. District Court Chief Judge Patrick Schiltz accused Lyons and federal immigration authorities of disregarding multiple court orders over recent weeks.
Judge’s Orders and Court Appearance
In a rare move, Judge Schiltz ordered Todd Lyons to appear personally in court to explain why he should not face contempt charges. The judge highlighted a specific case involving an immigrant who was not granted a bond hearing or released within the mandated seven days.
This directive was part of Schiltz’s broader concern regarding the operations of ICE under the Trump administration. In his January 26 ruling, the judge stated that “the Court’s patience is at an end.”
Homeland Security’s Response
In reaction to Schiltz’s declaration, Homeland Security spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin criticized the judge. She labeled him an “activist judge” and questioned the practicality of requiring Lyons to divert his attention from critical enforcement duties.
Canceled Contempt Hearing
- The contempt hearing for Lyons was set for January 30, 2026.
- It was canceled after the release of Tobay Robles on January 27.
- Robles, an Ecuadorian national, unlawfully entered the U.S. around 1999.
Despite the cancellation of the hearing, Judge Schiltz noted that the court’s concerns regarding ICE’s compliance with orders remain. He remarked that ICE might have violated more court orders in January 2026 than some federal agencies in their entire history.
Key Points
- Judge Patrick Schiltz ordered ICE’s Todd Lyons to address contempt issues.
- Schiltz emphasized the need for compliance with court mandates.
- Homeland Security criticized the judicial intervention.
- The case of Tobay Robles remains emblematic of broader immigration issues.
The ongoing legal scrutiny of ICE underlines critical tension in immigration enforcement and judicial oversight. Judge Schiltz’s statements reflect an urgent demand for accountability in the agency’s operations.
