ICE Detentions of Noncriminal Migrants Fall Sharply After Backlash to Minneapolis Operation, Data Show

New federal data indicates that detentions of migrants without criminal records by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have dropped significantly in early 2026, following widespread backlash over a large-scale enforcement surge in the Minneapolis area.

The shift comes in the aftermath of “Operation Metro Surge,” a controversial immigration enforcement deployment in Minneapolis that drew national scrutiny and political criticism.

Sharp Decline in Noncriminal Detentions

According to ICE data cited in recent reporting, the number of detainees without criminal histories fell by roughly 21% between January and March 2026, contributing to an overall 12% decline in ICE custody levels during the same period. 

The drop marks a notable change in enforcement patterns after months of elevated arrests earlier in the administration’s expanded immigration crackdown.

While noncriminal detainees remain the largest group in ICE custody, the data suggests a shift toward fewer “collateral” or non-priority arrests compared to the peak of enforcement activity earlier in the year. 

Backlash After Minneapolis Operation

The decline follows public and political reaction to Operation Metro Surge, a federal immigration enforcement surge in the Minneapolis–St. Paul region that involved thousands of agents and resulted in mass arrests.

The operation became controversial after reports of aggressive enforcement tactics, detentions of individuals without criminal records, and civil unrest in the area. In the aftermath, officials and lawmakers raised concerns about targeting practices and oversight.

Reporting indicates the operation led to intense scrutiny of ICE practices, including whether enforcement priorities were being applied consistently. 

Shift in Enforcement Strategy

Federal officials have reportedly signaled a recalibration of enforcement priorities following the Minneapolis operation, with increased emphasis on individuals with criminal convictions or pending charges.

Data shows smaller declines in detainees with criminal records compared to the sharper drop among noncriminal migrants, suggesting a targeted adjustment rather than a broad reduction in enforcement activity. 

Ongoing Political Debate

The changes come amid continuing debate over immigration enforcement strategy under the current administration. Supporters of stricter enforcement argue that broader detention practices are necessary for border control and public safety.

Critics, however, contend that the data reflects the consequences of aggressive enforcement operations that risk sweeping up individuals without criminal histories and eroding public trust in immigration agencies.

Broader Context

Immigration enforcement levels remain historically elevated compared to previous administrations, even with the recent decline in noncriminal detentions. Analysts say the trend may reflect both political pressure and operational adjustments following high-profile incidents tied to the Minneapolis surge.

Bottom Line

While ICE continues large-scale enforcement activity, new data suggests a noticeable shift away from detaining migrants without criminal records—potentially signaling a strategic response to backlash from the Minneapolis operation and its broader political fallout.