MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Tensions flared when federal immigration officers arrived at Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis with Alberto Castañeda Mondragón, a Mexican immigrant suffering from severe head injuries. Initially, ICE agents contended that the 31-year-old had attempted to escape while handcuffed and sustained his injuries by running into a brick wall. However, medical staff disputed this explanation, citing that the nature of his injuries included multiple skull fractures and bleeding that could not logically result from such an incident. Nurses described the claim as 'laughable,' suggesting that even a layperson could conclude that the injuries could not have been caused by running into a wall.
The conflict illustrates an ongoing issue at Minneapolis hospitals where ICE enforcement has become increasingly involved, leading to mounting tensions. Staff reported feeling threatened, and as a reaction, hospital administrators established new protocols to manage interactions with immigration officers. Reports of agents asking for proof of citizenship from patients and staff further escalated feelings of intimidation among hospital employees.
Castañeda Mondragón's arrest followed an operation in Minnesota aimed at targeting undocumented immigrants, and he reportedly entered the U.S. legally in 2022. Despite having a company founded in St. Paul, his history was overlooked during the aggressive immigration enforcement practices, reflecting claims of racial profiling during his arrest.
Following the incident, a court ordered his release from ICE custody, and he was discharged from the hospital weeks post-arrest. However, he now faces significant recovery challenges and memory loss, as family members express concern about his well-being and the harsh treatment he received. This case has heightened scrutiny over ICE's engagement in medical facilities and the rights of patients in their care.
The conflict illustrates an ongoing issue at Minneapolis hospitals where ICE enforcement has become increasingly involved, leading to mounting tensions. Staff reported feeling threatened, and as a reaction, hospital administrators established new protocols to manage interactions with immigration officers. Reports of agents asking for proof of citizenship from patients and staff further escalated feelings of intimidation among hospital employees.
Castañeda Mondragón's arrest followed an operation in Minnesota aimed at targeting undocumented immigrants, and he reportedly entered the U.S. legally in 2022. Despite having a company founded in St. Paul, his history was overlooked during the aggressive immigration enforcement practices, reflecting claims of racial profiling during his arrest.
Following the incident, a court ordered his release from ICE custody, and he was discharged from the hospital weeks post-arrest. However, he now faces significant recovery challenges and memory loss, as family members express concern about his well-being and the harsh treatment he received. This case has heightened scrutiny over ICE's engagement in medical facilities and the rights of patients in their care.
