Story perspectives

Minneapolis Protests Surge Over ICE Cooperation and Costs

2/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

Hennepin County Sheriff Dawanna Witt says her enforcement policies remain unchanged, and cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement requires a judicial warrant.
The end of Operation Metro Surge coincides with claims of ICE cooperation.
The operation has prompted backlash, with distrust rising and Minneapolis facing an estimated $203 million in costs.
Protests continue in the Twin Cities, with leaders criticizing the federal presence for racial profiling and accountability gaps.

History

Historical Context

Operation Metro Surge, initiated by ICE in December 2025, aimed to apprehend undocumented immigrants in Minnesota, leading to significant community backlash. The operation, which involved 3,000 agents, resulted in the deaths of U.S. citizens Renée Good and Alex Pretti in January 2026, sparking widespread protests and highlighting tensions between local law enforcement and federal immigration policies.

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Story summary

Hennepin County Sheriff Dawanna Witt says her enforcement policies remain unchanged, and cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement requires a judicial warrant.
The end of Operation Metro Surge coincides with claims of ICE cooperation.
The operation has prompted backlash, with distrust rising and Minneapolis facing an estimated $203 million in costs.
Protests continue in the Twin Cities, with leaders criticizing the federal presence for racial profiling and accountability gaps.

1 / 2