Full Breakdown
Investigation Launched into Arrest of U.S. Citizen by ICE Agents in Minnesota
4/13/2026, 10:06:15 PM
Overview of the Incident
On January 18, 2026, ChongLy “Scott” Thao, a 56-year-old U.S. citizen, was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in St. Paul, Minnesota. The incident, which has drawn significant public attention, involved federal agents breaking into Thao's home at gunpoint, detaining him in subzero temperatures while he was dressed only in boxer shorts and sandals, and subsequently questioning him for over an hour before realizing he was a U.S. citizen with no criminal record. This event has prompted Ramsey County officials to investigate potential charges against the federal agents involved, including kidnapping, burglary, and false imprisonment.
Official Statements & Responses
Ramsey County Attorney John Choi stated that there was "no legitimate legal reason" for ICE agents to enter Thao's home, emphasizing that the operation lacked probable cause. Choi has formally requested information from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regarding the agents involved and the justification for the arrest. Sheriff Bob Fletcher echoed these sentiments, asserting that Thao's citizenship status was clear and that the actions taken by ICE were not reflective of good law enforcement practices. In response, a DHS spokesperson denied the allegations of kidnapping, asserting that ICE was executing a warrant based on intelligence that linked the property to two convicted sex offenders.
Background & Context
The arrest occurred during Operation Metro Surge, a large-scale immigration enforcement initiative launched under the Trump administration, which has faced scrutiny for its aggressive tactics. The operation has been criticized for its impact on local communities, particularly among immigrant populations. Thao's case is one of several incidents that have raised questions about the legality and ethics of federal immigration enforcement actions in Minnesota.
Criticism & Opposition
Local officials and community leaders have voiced strong opposition to ICE's methods. St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her criticized the agency for not targeting serious criminals, stating, "They’re going after anyone and everyone in their path. It is unacceptable and un-American." Thao's family has also disputed DHS's claims regarding the alleged ties to the sex offenders, asserting that they have no connection to the individuals ICE was pursuing.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are discrepancies regarding the justification for the raid. While DHS claims that Thao was living with the targets of the operation, Thao and his family maintain that they have never seen the individuals named by ICE. Additionally, one of the targets was confirmed to be incarcerated at the time of Thao's arrest, raising further questions about the operation's validity.
What's Next
Ramsey County officials are pursuing further evidence and may convene a grand jury if DHS does not comply with their requests. Thao has indicated plans to file a civil rights lawsuit against the federal government, seeking accountability for the actions taken against him.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are going to be dogged in our pursuit of the truth,” — John Choi, Ramsey County Attorney
- “There’s no dispute that he was taken out of his house, forcibly taken out of his home and driven around.” — Bob Fletcher, Ramsey County Sheriff
- “ICE does not ‘kidnap’ people.” — DHS Spokesperson
This investigation continues to unfold as local officials seek transparency and accountability from federal immigration authorities.
