FOX 9 docuseries examines immigration surge in Minneapolis and Chicago

A new documentary series from FOX 9 Documentaries debuts today, Nov. 4, to examine the Trump administration's immigration enforcement actions in Minneapolis and Chicago. The production investigates the operations that led to constitutional disputes, violent tactics, and deadly shootings in the two cities.

The three-part series, titled Thin I.C.E., includes interviews with nearly three dozen sources. These individuals include immigrants, ICE observers, immigration attorneys, former Department of Justice officials, and a sitting federal judge. Part I, released today, is titled 'Worst of the Worst.' It investigates the administration's claim that agents targeted violent criminals during the surge.

David Wilson, an immigration attorney featured in the documentary, challenged that narrative. Wilson stated, 'They weren't going after the worst of the worst. They're going after the easiest.' This perspective contrasts with the repeated assertions by administration officials and supporters that ICE agents focused on 'rapists and murderers.' Data reviewed for the series shows most detainees had no criminal records. Many of those who did have records were already in state or federal custody.

Rep. Walter Hudson (R-Albertville) offered a different view on the strategy employed. He acknowledged that former DHS Secretary Kristi Noem used a 'dragnet' approach. Hudson said, 'Kristi Noem seemed to be most concerned with getting the headline of how many arrests were taking place.' FOX 9 requested interviews with other Minnesota Republican members of Congress, but they either declined or did not respond to the request.

The series relies on extensive primary source materials. FOX 9 analyzed hundreds of court records and reviewed hours of body video footage from operations in both cities. The production team conducted dozens of interviews to build the narrative for the series.

The remaining episodes are scheduled for release later this month. Part II, titled 'Domestic Terrorists,' airs on Nov. 11. Part III, titled 'Chaos,' airs on Nov. 18. All three episodes are available on FOX 9, FOX LOCAL, and on demand via the FOX 9 YouTube channel.