Story perspectives

U.S. Citizen Arrested in Controversial Immigration Raid

4/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

On January 18, federal immigration agents arrested U.S. citizen ChongLy 'Scott' Thao.
He was forcibly removed from his home in freezing weather, wearing only boxer shorts and Crocs.
Ramsey County Attorney John Choi said the arrest may involve kidnapping and false imprisonment for lack of probable cause.
The Department of Homeland Security said agents sought two convicted sex offenders.
Thao's family disputed that account, and local prosecutors are pursuing investigations.

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Story summary

On January 18, federal immigration agents arrested U.S. citizen ChongLy 'Scott' Thao.
He was forcibly removed from his home in freezing weather, wearing only boxer shorts and Crocs.
Ramsey County Attorney John Choi said the arrest may involve kidnapping and false imprisonment for lack of probable cause.
The Department of Homeland Security said agents sought two convicted sex offenders.
Thao's family disputed that account, and local prosecutors are pursuing investigations.