(ST. PAUL, Minn.) - On the morning of January 3, federal ICE officials conducted an operation targeting immigrant communities in Saint Paul’s West Side. Trained community observers began monitoring activity after identifying a suspected ICE vehicle in the parking lot of local markets on Cesar Chavez Street.
At the same time, local businesses reported a strong immigration enforcement presence in the neighborhood. Observers followed established protocols: remaining at a safe distance, not interfering with law enforcement activity, and documenting what was visible from public spaces.
Rep. María Isa Pérez-Vega (DFL-Saint Paul) released the following statement:
"The reports of federal ICE operations targeting our sacred community spaces are a direct assault on the fundamental values of our community. No child and no family should ever feel fear going to everyday adorned institutions, community spaces, and local businesses. These dehumanizing tactics are designed to keep our neighbors living in the shadows, scared and divided. We cannot, and will not, allow fear to become the status quo in St. Paul.
“I am fully committed to working alongside Mayor Kaohly Vang Her, Police Chief Axel Henry, and community leaders to ensure our residents know their rights and that the rights of all our residents are protected. Our local resources must be used to build trust and safety, not to facilitate the separation of families.
“We must meet this moment with unwavering unity. When one part of our community is under attack, our entire democracy is at risk. Our St. Paul Delegation will continue to fight back, defend our civil and constitutional rights, and ensure that St. Paul remains a place where every person—regardless of their status—can live with dignity and without fear."
As activity continued, agents relocated constitutional observers to the parking lot of Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. Observers positioned themselves in that public parking lot to continue documenting and to ensure community members in the area were informed of their rights. At no point did observers interfere with law enforcement operations.
During this time, agents’ conduct escalated. Despite observers maintaining a clear and safe distance, one observer was pepper-sprayed by an agent. Observers also witnessed damage to city property during the incident. The use of force appeared unnecessary given the non-confrontational and lawful behavior of those present. The observer who was pepper-sprayed was engaged solely in documentation and observation, activities protected under the First Amendment.
The attached video shows federal agents executing an ICE operation in the neighborhood of West Side St. Paul.
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