ICE detains U of M student at Twin Cities campus, officials say
Bill would require cooperation with ICE [RAW]
Minnesota lawmakers held a press conference on March 12 to discuss a bill that would require cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, including making it a requirement for county attorneys to notify federal immigration authorities when an undocumented person is arrested for a violent crime.
MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - The University of Minnesota has confirmed U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials detained a graduate student enrolled on our Twin Cities campus this week.
U of M student detained by ICE
What we know:
A statement provided by U of M President Rebecca Cunningham sent to students says, "The university had no prior knowledge of this incident and did not share any information with federal authorities" before the student was detained at their off-campus residence on March 27.
The statement says that its campus departments of public safety, including UMPD, do not enforce federal immigration laws, and its officers do not inquire about an individual’s immigration status.
The university says it will take steps to ensure students are connected to resources and support, such as Student Legal Services and International Student and Scholar Services.
"We understand how distressing this news may be for members of our university community," the statement reads.
What we don't know:
The university says they are actively working to gather more details about the incident.
What they're saying:
Senator Doron Clark (DFL-Minneapolis) responded to the incident with the following statement:
"I am saddened and angered that ICE is operating around the University of Minnesota. Our campuses should be a safe place for all students, staff, and visitors. I will be monitoring the situation closely, and encourage folks to stay vigilant and well-informed. We must stand up against the Trump administration’s senseless demonization of our friends, family and neighbors."
The Source: Information in this article was provided in a statement by the University of Minnesota.