Federal Judge Orders Agreement on Legal Access for Detainees at Minnesota ICE Facility
A federal judge has mandated that the U.S. government and human rights lawyers reach an agreement by next Thursday regarding the right to legal counsel for individuals detained at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Minnesota. The facility, located near Minneapolis, has been criticized for allegedly denying detainees adequate access to legal representation. Human rights advocates argue that detainees face challenges in meeting with lawyers, with in-person meetings being particularly restricted. U.S. District Judge Nancy Brasel highlighted a significant discrepancy between the government's claims of providing adequate access and the evidence presented by the plaintiffs. The judge has urged both parties to continue mediation efforts with a retired judge to resolve these issues. If no agreement is reached by the deadline, Judge Brasel will issue a ruling. The facility, part of the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building, has been a focal point for protests and criticism, particularly concer...