DiscoverTrump's TermsMinnesota refugees, including teenage girl, sue Trump admin over detention
Minnesota refugees, including teenage girl, sue Trump admin over detention

Minnesota refugees, including teenage girl, sue Trump admin over detention

Update: 2026-02-11
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This podcast episode of "Trump's Terms" discusses a lawsuit filed by refugees against the Department of Homeland Security, alleging illegal arrest and detention by ICE agents during the Trump administration's "Operation Paris." The operation aimed to review asylum claims, particularly in Minnesota. The episode highlights the distressing experiences of a teenage plaintiff, including being handcuffed and detained overnight. It also sheds light on concerning conditions at the Whipple Federal Building detention center, such as limited access to legal counsel and issues with detainee treatment. The podcast thanks NPR+ supporters and promotes the WISE app.

Outlines

00:00:00
Introduction and Refugee Lawsuit Against DHS

Introduction to "Trump's Terms," focusing on presidential power, and a lawsuit by refugees against DHS alleging illegal arrest and detention by ICE agents during the Trump administration's "Operation Paris" review of asylum seekers.

00:01:46
Detainee Experiences and Detention Center Conditions

Details the experience of a teenage plaintiff, including her detention by ICE agents and being forced to abandon her car. It also covers concerns about conditions at the Whipple Federal Building detention center, such as access to legal counsel, phone calls, and detainee treatment.

00:05:06
NPR+ Support and Sponsorship

A thank you to NPR+ supporters and a promotion for NPR+ benefits, followed by sponsorship messages for the app WISE.

Keywords

Operation Paris


A Trump administration immigration enforcement operation in Minnesota aimed at reviewing asylum claims from refugees, involving ICE agents and leading to litigation.

Asylum Seekers


Individuals seeking protection in a new country due to persecution, undergoing a legal process to determine their eligibility for asylum.

ICE Agents


Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers responsible for enforcing U.S. immigration laws, including arrests and detentions.

Whipple Federal Building


A federal building in Minnesota used as an ICE detention center, where conditions and detainee rights have faced legal scrutiny.

Refugee Status


Legal recognition for individuals fleeing persecution, providing protection and rights under U.S. and international law.

Q&A

  • What is the main allegation in the lawsuit filed by refugees against the Department of Homeland Security?

    The lawsuit alleges that immigration agents illegally arrested and detained refugees as part of the Trump administration's "Operation Paris," a review of asylum claims, violating their rights.

  • Can you describe the experience of the teenage plaintiff in the lawsuit?

    The teen alleges she was pulled over by ICE agents, handcuffed, forced to abandon her father's car, and detained overnight in a hotel room with agents after ICE was prevented from sending her out of state.

  • What concerns have been raised about conditions at the Whipple Federal Building detention center?

    Concerns include limited access to legal counsel, lack of private phone areas, detainees being shackled, and the presence of new child car seats, suggesting potential issues with unaccompanied minors.

  • What is "Operation Paris"?

    "Operation Paris" was a Trump administration initiative involving ICE agents reviewing asylum claims of approximately 5,600 refugees in Minnesota, which has drawn legal challenges.

Show Notes

Refugees from three continents are suing the Department of Homeland Security, saying immigration agents illegally arrested and detained them as part of a Trump administration review of asylum seekers. MPR's Matt Sepic reports. 

Support NPR and hear every episode of Trump's Terms sponsor-free with NPR+. Sign up at plus.npr.org.

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Minnesota refugees, including teenage girl, sue Trump admin over detention

Minnesota refugees, including teenage girl, sue Trump admin over detention