(Minneapolis, January 18, 2026) — A federal judge has restricted the response of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to protesters in Minneapolis, Minnesota, following concerns over the use of force during demonstrations.
A judge issued rulings limiting ICE’s tactics amid allegations of excessive force against protesters, while South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem initially denied, then acknowledged, her state’s involvement in providing support to the federal response.
- A federal judge has ordered ICE agents to cease pepper spraying and retaliating against peaceful protesters in Minneapolis.
- Governor Kristi Noem of South Dakota initially denied the use of chemical agents by state officials, but later clarified that state troopers provided support to Minneapolis police during the protests.
- The judge’s ruling restricts ICE’s ability to respond to demonstrations, aiming to protect First Amendment rights.
Judge Restricts ICE Tactics
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U.S. District Judge Michael J. Davis issued an order restricting ICE’s response to protesters, according to reporting from NBC News. The ruling prohibits federal agents from using pepper spray or other retaliatory measures against individuals engaged in peaceful demonstrations.
The restrictions come after allegations that ICE agents used excessive force against protesters during demonstrations in Minneapolis, the BBC reported. The judge’s order aims to protect First Amendment rights and prevent further escalation of tensions.
Noem Addresses South Dakota’s Role
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem initially denied that state officials used chemical agents during the protests, as reported by The New York Times. However, she later backtracked, stating that South Dakota state troopers were deployed to Minneapolis to provide support to local law enforcement.
“We sent our troopers to help Minneapolis police, and they provided support as requested,” Noem said, according to CBS News. She defended the state’s involvement, asserting that the judge’s order did not alter the state’s commitment to assisting local authorities.
“The judge’s order didn’t change anything,” Governor Noem stated, as reported by CBS News, maintaining that South Dakota’s support for Minneapolis police remained consistent.
ICE Operations Continue
Despite the judge’s restrictions, Governor Noem maintained that ICE operations in Minnesota would continue, CBS News reported. She argued that the federal government has a legitimate role in enforcing immigration laws and protecting public safety.
5 EYEWITNESS NEWS reported that the judge’s ruling outlines specific protocols for ICE agents responding to protests, emphasizing the need for de-escalation tactics and respect for constitutional rights.
Time.news based this report in part on reporting by The New York Times, BBC, NBC News, CBS News, and 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS and added independent analysis and context.
