ICE Removes US Citizen Chongly Thao from Minnesota Home Without Warrant

In a dramatic incident in St. Paul, Minnesota, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents forcibly entered the home of a U.S. citizen, Chongly “Scott” Thao, without a warrant. Family members reported that agents broke down the door and subsequently detained Thao at gunpoint in freezing temperatures. Videos of the arrest show Thao being led outside in only his underwear and sandals, wrapped in a blanket while agents pointed firearms at his family.

Timeline of the Incident

The events unfolded on a Sunday afternoon when Thao was alerted by his daughter-in-law about the ICE agents banging on their door. Thao instructed her not to open it. However, agents quickly broke in and confronted Thao and his family, instilling fear among those present.

Arrest Details

Thao, a longtime U.S. citizen, requested to show his identification, but agents declined to view it initially. After being handcuffed, he was taken away by the agents, who later transported him to an undisclosed location. There, Thao was photographed in the harsh cold and asked for ID again. It was only after some time that the agents confirmed his citizenship and released him back home.

Local Reactions

The actions of ICE have sparked significant backlash from local officials and community members. St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her criticized the operation as targeting innocent individuals rather than serious criminals. She articulated her discontent, labeling such actions as “unacceptable and un-American.”

Department of Homeland Security’s Response

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security defended the operation, claiming it aimed at detaining two convicted sex offenders believed to be in proximity to Thao’s residence. However, Thao’s family disputes this assertion, arguing that their home was not harboring these individuals. Additionally, the nearest sex offender identified by state records lives over two blocks away.

• Thao has no criminal record.
• ICE agents reportedly took Thao’s son into custody briefly while stopping him on his way to work.
• Thao’s family emigrated to the U.S. from Laos, owing their safety to the assistance they provided to American forces during the Vietnam War.

Aftermath and Legal Action

Chongly Thao expressed feelings of insecurity in his own home following the incident. He announced plans to file a civil rights lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security, stating, “I don’t feel safe at all.” His family’s distress has been compounded by their history of fleeing danger after supporting U.S. military efforts.

This incident raises concerns regarding the tactics employed by federal immigration agents and the implications for the rights of U.S. citizens. The ramifications of this case continue to unfold as community members advocate for accountability and reform.