Story perspectives

ICE Agents Detain Man Without Warrant in Freezing Cold

1/20/2026

Summary

ICE Detains Thao

On January 19, 2026, ICE agents in St. Paul, Minnesota broke down door and detained ChongLy "Scott" Thao without a warrant.
He was led outside in subfreezing temperatures wearing only shorts and sandals.
Thao feared deportation to Laos.
He was returned home hours later without explanation or apology, drawing local officials' criticism.
The Department of Homeland Security said they targeted two convicted sex offenders believed to be at the residence.

Summary

Frey Challenges ICE

Tensions between the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Minnesota residents have escalated amid a crackdown on undocumented immigrants.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has called on ICE to leave the city, citing community fears after the fatal shooting of Renee Good by an ICE agent.
Protests have intensified, impacting local businesses.
The Department of Justice is investigating the protests.
The Trump administration has threatened to deploy military forces.

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ICE Detains Thao

On January 19, 2026, ICE agents in St. Paul, Minnesota broke down door and detained ChongLy "Scott" Thao without a warrant.
He was led outside in subfreezing temperatures wearing only shorts and sandals.
Thao feared deportation to Laos.
He was returned home hours later without explanation or apology, drawing local officials' criticism.
The Department of Homeland Security said they targeted two convicted sex offenders believed to be at the residence.

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