Federal prosecutors charge 15 individuals for impeding immigration enforcement in Minnesota

Federal prosecutors have charged 15 individuals with impeding immigration enforcement efforts in Minnesota, alleging that they coordinated actions to block arrests and deportations. Minnesota U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen stated during a news conference that the investigation focused on members of two activist groups accused of opposing federal law enforcement. Twelve individuals were arrested, with two remaining at large and one already in custody. The charges stem from actions taken during the Trump administration's immigration crackdown, known as Operation Metro Surge, which began in January. The operation reportedly led to over 4,000 arrests. The defendants face charges including conspiracy to impede a federal officer, with some facing additional charges such as interstate stalking and destruction of government property. Rosen noted that the alleged conspiracy involved tactics such as stalking ICE agents and setting up blockades around federal buildings.