MINNEAPOLIS (Echosphere News) — In a landmark decision, U.S. District Judge Kate Menendez ruled on Friday that federal officers participating in immigration enforcement operations in the Minneapolis area must respect the rights of peaceful protesters. The ruling came in response to a case filed by six Minnesota activists, represented by the ACLU of Minnesota, who claimed that government officers have been violating the constitutional rights of Twin Cities residents amid heightened immigration enforcement activities.

Since early December, thousands have gathered to observe the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol officers, enforcing a crackdown on immigration policy initiated during the Trump administration. Government attorneys defended their actions, asserting that officers were exercising their legal authority to enforce immigration laws while ensuring their safety. However, the court emphasized that the constitutional rights of individuals must be upheld, paving the way for greater protection of activists in the ongoing struggle for immigrant rights.}