ICE Detains Elderly Hmong-American in St. Paul Home; Family Alleges Mistaken Identity

On Sunday, federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents detained ChongLy "Saly" Scott Thao, a 57-year-old Hmong-American and naturalized U.S. citizen, at his St. Paul, Minnesota, home. Thao was taken outside in freezing temperatures wearing only underwear and Crocs, as captured in videos recorded by neighbors.

According to Thao's family, ICE agents forcibly entered their residence without presenting a warrant, with weapons drawn, and handcuffed Thao in front of his 5-year-old grandson. They allege that the agents did not verify Thao's identity before detaining him.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that ICE was conducting a targeted operation to apprehend two convicted sex offenders. Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin explained that Thao matched the description of the targets and refused to provide identification. She noted that it is standard protocol to detain all individuals present during such operations for safety reasons.

Thao's family disputes the DHS's account, asserting that the individuals sought by ICE do not reside with them and that they have lived in the home for two years. They believe ICE was searching for a previous resident.

St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her criticized the operation, expressing concern over the treatment of a U.S. citizen and the impact on the Hmong-American community. She stated that the sex offenders ICE mentioned do not reside with Thao's family.

As of now, the two individuals targeted in the operation have not been apprehended. DHS plans to release their photographs and descriptions to assist in their capture.