Story perspectives

Hennepin Sheriff: Immigration Crackdown Undermines Community Safety

2/4/2026

Center

Sheriff Defends Actions

Hennepin County Sheriff Dawanna Witt says she feels scapegoated amid the immigration crackdown in Minneapolis.
Witt says her office cooperates with federal agencies and does not enforce civil immigration law.
She says the federal immigration system is broken and local authorities must maintain community safety.
Witt notes the emotional toll on deputies and the impact of the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti on public trust.

Right

Sheriff Resists ICE

The Minnesota state prison system cooperates with ICE, while local jails vary in compliance.
Some sheriffs, including Hennepin County Sheriff Dawanna Witt, refuse to cooperate due to public safety concerns.
The Trump administration demands increased cooperation and has threatened continued deployment of armed agents.
Protests followed after two citizens were fatally shot during demonstrations.
Attorney General Keith Ellison says detaining individuals solely on ICE requests may violate constitutional rights.

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Sheriff Defends Actions

Hennepin County Sheriff Dawanna Witt says she feels scapegoated amid the immigration crackdown in Minneapolis.
Witt says her office cooperates with federal agencies and does not enforce civil immigration law.
She says the federal immigration system is broken and local authorities must maintain community safety.
Witt notes the emotional toll on deputies and the impact of the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti on public trust.

1 / 2