Judge Blocks Retaliatory Tactics Against Protesters

A federal judge in Minnesota has restricted U.S. immigration agents in Minneapolis from using aggressive tactics against peaceful protesters. The injunction follows a large deployment of agents in the area and aims to protect the rights of individuals observing enforcement activities.

In a significant judgement, a Minnesota federal judge has mandated a halt to aggressive tactics by U.S. immigration agents against peaceful protesters in Minneapolis. The decision, delivered by U.S. District Judge Kate Menendez, marks a victory for local activists in the state's largest city.

The injunction explicitly prevents officers from arresting or detaining protesters without reasonable suspicion of criminal activity. The ruling also bans the usage of crowd-control measures like pepper spray and tear gas on those engaged in peaceful demonstrations or observing immigration operations.

This judgment arrives in the wake of the Trump administration's large-scale deployment of immigration agents to Minneapolis, which has escalated local tensions. The operation includes nearly 3,000 officers, overshadowing local police forces. Concerns grew particularly after the fatal shooting of a local activist and mother by an ICE agent.

(With inputs from agencies.)