ICE Agents Menaced Minnesota Protesters at Their Homes, Filings Say

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by Jonah E. Bromwich

February 14, 2026

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ICE agents in Minnesota have drawn scrutiny after reportedly targeting homes of protesters involved in monitoring their movements. Sworn statements filed in federal court detail instances where agents tracked down individuals, including Daniel Woo, a protester who was followed by an SUV linked to ICE agents to his Plymouth neighborhood. The filings suggest a pattern of agents using personal information to intimidate targets, raising concerns about privacy and the potential misuse of law enforcement powers. The case gained attention when Mr. Woo described how he was followed from a supermarket parking lot to his residence, feeling coerced by the agents' actions. Similar accounts were filed by over a dozen protesters, indicating a coordinated effort to identify and track individuals believed to be monitoring ICE activities. While it remains unclear how the agents obtained the addresses, some speculate that vehicle license plates may have been used for surveillance. This incident highlights broader concerns about government overreach and the erosion of privacy rights. The targeting of activists not only chills free expression but also underscores the potential for law enforcement to misuse data collection methods. As protests against immigration policies continue, such actions may discourage participation, impacting public discourse on critical issues. Legal experts warn that this could set a precedent for increased surveillance, affecting not just protesters in Minnesota but potentially others across the nation. The case has sparked debates over the balance between national security and individual rights. Advocacy groups argue that such tactics erode trust in law enforcement and undermine democratic processes. As investigations proceed, questions remain about how ICE obtained personal information and whether such practices align with legal standards. The outcome of these inquiries could influence future policies on surveillance and protester protections. This situation emphasizes the delicate balance between enforcing immigration laws and safeguarding constitutional rights. Advocates call for transparency in law enforcement actions to ensure accountability and prevent similar incidents. As the legal proceedings unfold, the broader implications for privacy and protest rights remain a pressing concern for the public and policymakers alike.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/14/2026