A Minnesota federal judge has directed the acting head of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Todd Lyons, to appear in court on January 26, 2024, after the agency failed to comply with previous court orders regarding the detention of an individual. Chief Judge Patrick J. Schiltz issued the order, emphasizing that the court’s patience has been exhausted.
The judge’s directive follows a January 14 ruling that required ICE to either conduct a bond hearing for Juan Tobay Robles, who is contesting his detention, or release him within a week. By January 23, Robles’ attorney notified the court that neither option had been fulfilled. Schiltz expressed concern that ICE’s non-compliance has led to significant hardships for individuals in detention, stating, “the detention of an alien is extended, or an alien who should remain in Minnesota is flown to Texas.”
In his ruling, Judge Schiltz indicated that Lyons must personally explain why he should not be held in contempt of court. He noted that if Robles is released before the Friday hearing, the court will cancel the summons.
Schiltz also criticized ICE for its lack of action, stating that the agency had assured the court it would comply with orders but continued to violate them. “The extent of ICE’s violation of court orders is likewise extraordinary, and lesser measures have been tried and failed,” Schiltz remarked.
Meeting Between State Officials and Federal Representatives
In a related development, Tom Homan, the White House Border Czar, met with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz on January 23. This meeting coincides with reports that Gregory Bovino, the Border Patrol Chief, and several agents may be departing the state. While the Department of Homeland Security did not confirm these reports, Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated that Bovino remains a key member of the President’s team.
During the meeting, Walz reiterated Minnesota’s priorities, which include impartial investigations into recent police shootings and a reduction in federal forces operating in the state. The Governor’s office emphasized the need for ongoing communication with federal representatives to address these issues.
Walz also spoke with President Donald Trump earlier in the week, describing the conversation as productive. Both officials discussed potential reductions in federal agents and the ongoing investigations into police shootings, highlighting the importance of state involvement in these matters.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Police Chief Brian O’Hara also met with Homan on January 23. In a statement, Frey characterized the discussion as “productive,” focusing on the impacts of Operation Metro Surge, a federal initiative. “I shared with Mr. Homan the serious negative impacts this operation has had on Minneapolis and surrounding communities,” Frey explained.
The mayor emphasized that the city does not enforce federal immigration laws and aims to maintain public safety while addressing the concerns of residents regarding federal operations in the area. As discussions continue, local leaders are stressing the need for a coordinated approach to ensure the well-being of communities impacted by federal immigration enforcement.
