Minneapolis lawyers strategize to shield illegal immigrants from ICE

Leaked emails from Minneapolis-area lawyers reveal plans to help illegal immigrants avoid Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during court appearances. The discussions occurred on February 6, coinciding with a legal opinion from Minnesota's Attorney General stating local law enforcement cannot hold individuals based solely on immigration detainers. Lawyers suggested using Zoom for hearings to prevent clients from encountering ICE officers in person. Some attorneys reported that judges were supportive of these requests, indicating a shift in court practices to accommodate concerns about ICE enforcement. The emails have raised legal questions about the use of court resources to evade federal enforcement. As of now, no legal actions have been taken against the lawyers involved, and the Minnesota Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers expressed discontent over the leaked correspondence.