Full Breakdown
ICE Employee Arrested in Minnesota Sex Trafficking Sting
11/20/2025, 3:04:31 AM
Overview of the Operation
A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) employee was arrested during a Minnesota trafficking investigation known as "Operation Creep," which targeted individuals allegedly attempting to solicit a minor for sex. The operation, conducted by the Bloomington Police Department, began on November 5 and lasted three days, focusing on identifying individuals seeking to purchase sex from a 17-year-old girl. Police Chief Booker Hodges reported that Alexander Back, a 41-year-old civilian auditor with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), was among the 16 men arrested. During his arrest, Back reportedly identified himself by saying, "I'm ICE, boys."
Details of the Arrests
The arrests included a diverse group of individuals, with ages ranging from 18 to 49. In addition to Back, other suspects included a Metro Transit bus driver, an employee of the Brown County Historical Society, and a staff member from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. While most of the men arrested were from the Twin Cities area, not all have been formally charged. Police noted that some suspects were taken into ICE custody, although the Bloomington Police Department lacks the means to verify their immigration status.
Evidence and Investigation
The sting operation revealed significant evidence against the suspects. Police released drone footage showing one individual arriving at a hotel with a bag allegedly containing cocaine, methamphetamine, and eight firearms. Another suspect was apprehended after allegedly stating he intended to arrive with a gun. The investigation was supported by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and local police departments from Eden Prairie, Richfield, and the Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport.
Implications for ICE and Law Enforcement
The involvement of an ICE employee in a sting operation targeting the solicitation of a minor has raised concerns about oversight and accountability within the agency. The arrest comes at a time when federal immigration authorities are under increased scrutiny, and allegations of misconduct by agency personnel are drawing significant public attention. Chief Hodges emphasized the need for legislative measures to restrict online platforms that facilitate such offenses, stating, "We need to make sure that we pass some laws that make it so these companies can't continue to have these people on their platforms."
Next Steps in the Investigation
Following the sting operation, some cases are expected to be referred to federal prosecutors for further action. The ongoing investigation aims to address the broader implications of such misconduct and enhance the accountability of law enforcement agencies involved in immigration and trafficking issues.
