In Minneapolis, observers began documenting the activities of federal immigration officers. These actions have led to a new lawsuit claiming that federal agencies are intimidating those who monitor their operations.
Michael Khalili, a Minneapolis resident, spent months observing ICE activity in the Twin Cities. He started this after federal agents targeted his city in a large-scale surge. Khalili highlights that videos captured by observers refuted false claims by Trump officials regarding the death of Alex Pretti, a fellow observer. Khalili underscores the importance of public scrutiny.
Khalili stopped his observations recently due to rising risks and family concerns. He reported tense exchanges with ICE agents who took photos of him and demanded he stop. Following an exchange in March, his Global Entry status was revoked and later reinstated after media scrutiny. By June, after activists faced charges linked to observing ICE, Khalili chose to cease his actions.
Despite stepping back, Khalili joined a lawsuit with Common Cause against federal agencies for infringing on First Amendment rights. The lawsuit covers multiple states and seeks broad relief from intimidation. Common Cause’s vice president, Maryam Jazini Dorcheh, labeled the right to hold government accountable as crucial for democracy.
Numerous observers reported threats in Minnesota, Maine, and California. In some cases, federal agents warned observers of potential inclusion in a watch list or terrorist database. The lawsuit documents incidents where observers faced intimidation tactics such as being followed, photographed, or threatened.
The lawsuit alleges a systematic policy of retaliation, stemming from directives like President Trump’s NSPM-7 memo. This memo linked impeding enforcement to terrorism, leading to surveillance and charges against activists. The suit argues these policies target observers as domestic threats.
Moreover, the lawsuit claims observer retaliation involves force threats, data surveillance, and revocation of programs like Global Entry. Khalili hopes his involvement helps prevent further mistreatment. He details his encounters, including extensive law enforcement queries on his records and federal list suspicions.
Khalili’s experience included heightened scrutiny upon returning to the U.S. from Ireland with his family. He aims for the lawsuit to foster corrective action, allowing safe observation without intimidation. Khalili expresses hope for improved protections and conditions following national disruptions.
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