A large group of local and federal law enforcement officials was spotted at a home in St. Paul on Tuesday morning, drawing a similarly big group of protesters.
The apparent raid started before noon in the city’s Payne-Phalen neighborhood.
According to St. Paul police, federal agents were “working a detail” on the 600 block of Rose Avenue when protesters broke the barrier.
At the scene, 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS crews spotted several agencies, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, U.S. Marshals, St. Paul police officers and St. Paul Fire Department officials.
Witnesses also reported what appeared to be tear gas deployed as protesters gathered. Agents later used what appeared to be pepper spray on demonstrators.
In a video statement, St. Paul Police Chief Axel Henry confirmed that chemical irritants were used during the protest.
Chief Henry emphasized that St. Paul law enforcement follows the city’s ordinances, which state that officers will work “cooperatively” with all federal agencies, but that St. Paul police officers do not enforce federal immigration laws.
Henry also said the police department will conduct a review of any use of force during the incident.
St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter addressed the incident during a press conference on Tuesday evening.
5 EYEWITNESS NEWS has reached out to county and federal officials for more information and comment, and continues to work to learn more about this incident. This story will be updated if any response is received.
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