Minnesota Activist Kyle Wagner Arrested for Threatening ICE Agents
A Minnesota activist, Kyle Wagner, was arrested on charges related to threatening Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. The Justice Department announced his arrest on Thursday, detailing the accusations against the 37-year-old activist.
Kyle Wagner’s Allegations and Activities
Wagner is accused of making incendiary comments on social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram. Prosecutors allege he posted videos that urged his followers to attack federal immigration officials, referring to them derogatorily as “gestapo” and “murderers.”
On January 8, he allegedly threatened ICE agents, claiming, “we’re fking coming for you.” The day after, he encouraged his audience to harass immigration officers, stating, “we should cripple them.” His rhetoric escalated as he advised supporters to “get your fking guns and stop these fking people” in a January 24 video.
Confrontational Messaging
- Wagner pushed his followers to “hunt” immigration officers, with a goal to “unmask and identify” them.
- He famously declared Minnesota as “where ICE has come to die.”
- Wagner also allegedly shared personal information about an ICE supporter in Michigan, leading to threats against the individual.
Federal agents detained Wagner in Minneapolis, where he was seen wearing a sweatshirt bearing the words, “I’M ANTIFA!” This affiliation highlights his connection to the left-wing movement known for its anti-fascist stance.
Background on Recent ICE Operations
The increase in public protests against ICE’s activities in Minnesota coincides with Operation Metro Surge. Launched in December by the Trump administration, this operation saw over 3,000 immigration agents deployed to Minneapolis. Reports indicate that more than 4,000 individuals living illegally in the U.S. were arrested as part of the operation.
In a statement, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that those obstructing law enforcement would be held accountable. This includes doxing or harassing ICE agents, which Wagner allegedly engaged in.
Reactions and Ongoing Investigations
The arrest has raised concerns amid tensions surrounding ICE’s enforcement tactics. This scrutiny intensified after two protesters were fatally shot by immigration officers last month. The FBI has launched an investigation into these incidents, focusing on the actions of federal agents in Minnesota.
Wagner’s initial court appearance was scheduled for the same day of his arrest. As of now, details about his legal representation remain unclear.
