Construction workers detained by ICE at Bemidji site, families seek legal aid
Jun 11, 2026·Location: Bemidji, MN

On June 11, 2026, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents conducted a targeted enforcement operation at a residential development site (Villas at Vista North) in Bemidji, Minnesota, detaining between 23-30 construction and roofing workers. Local police and sheriff's office confirmed they were not notified in advance and did not participate in the operation, though ICE had notified the sheriff's office of planned activities. Family members posted on social media seeking support and launched fundraising campaigns to cover legal fees. Community members, including members of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, gathered to protest the enforcement action.
Sources
- minnesotareformer.com
- redlakenationnews.com
- ICE detains 'several' workers from at least 1 Bemidji job site
KAXE·Jun 12, 2026·archived copy
- ICE detains workers at Bemidji construction site, leaving families facing uncertainty
bemidjipioneer.com·Jun 12, 2026·archived copy
fergusfallsjournal.com·Jun 12, 2026·archived copy
- Federal agents detain workers at Bemidji housing site; city Police not notified
valleynewslive.com·Jun 12, 2026·archived copy
- ICE detains workers from at least 1 Bemidji job site
Yahoo News·Jun 12, 2026·archived copy
- ICE Detains Members of Roofing Crew in Bemidji During Operation
- Bemidji ICE Operation Detains Roof Workers
- Leech Lake Band Member Describes Detainment by ICE During Bemidji Operation
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