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By SAFIYAH RIDDLE and VALERIE GONZALEZ

As the Trump administration intensifies immigration enforcement nationwide, a wave of high-profile arrests — many unfolding at private homes and businesses and captured on video — has pushed one legal question into the center of the national debate: When can federal immigration agents lawfully enter private property to make an arrest?

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That question has taken on new urgency in cities like Minneapolis, where thousands of federal agents are operating on the streets amid protests, confrontations and a fatal shooting, sharpening scrutiny of the legal authority immigration officers rely on when they arrive at the front door.

At the heart of the debate is a legal distinction largely unfamiliar to the public but central to immigration enforcement.

Most immigration arrests are carried out under administrative warrants, internal documents issued by immigration authorities that authorize the arrest of a specific individual but do not permit officers to forcibly enter private homes or other non-public spaces without consent. Only criminal warrants signed by judges carry that authority. Legal experts say the administration’s aggressive enforcement push, combined with public awareness of those limits, is increasingly turning door-knock encounters into flashpoints, fueling confrontations that are now playing out in cities across the country.

Here is what to know about the limitations on the warrants that authorize most immigration related arrests.

Immigration warrants typically don’t authorize entry onto private property

All law enforcement operations — including those conducted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection — are governed by the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which protects all people in the country from unreasonable searches and seizures. That means law enforcement is required to have a warrant before searching one’s private property or arresting someone, regardless of immigration status.

But not all warrants are the same. Typically, arrests carried out by Department of Homeland Security agencies are authorized by administrative warrants — sometimes known as immigration warrants — not judicial warrants.

Judicial warrants are issued by a court and signed by a magistrate or a state or federal judge. These warrants allow a relevant law enforcement agency to apprehend a specified individual in any context — regardless of whether the person is on public or on private property. In other words, law enforcement is legally allowed to enter and search a home or business to make the arrest without the consent of the property owner once a judge signs off on the arrest.

By contrast, the administrative warrants used in most immigration operations are sanctioned by an agency, officer or immigration judge, and don’t allow law enforcement to forcibly enter private property to detain someone.

That means people can legally refuse federal immigration agents entry into private property if the agents only have an administrative warrant.

A federal immigration officer deploys pepper spray as officers make an arrest Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/John Locher)

There are limited exceptions, some of which include if someone is in immediate danger, an officer is actively chasing a suspect or if someone is calling for help inside the residence. But those exceptions don’t apply in routine immigration arrests, legal experts say.

John Sandweg, a former ICE acting director, said officers are trained on what circumstances legally justify forced entry. But as the scope of ICE’s work has expanded, and more Border Patrol agents have begun conducting the work of ICE officers, there is a greater chance that agents will misapply the rules, he said.

“Your risks of all of these types of incidents increase dramatically when you take officers out of their normal operating environment and ask them to do things that they have not been trained to do, because it’s not part of their core missions,” Sandweg said.

Mounting tensions in Minneapolis

The thorny legal distinction between judicial and administrative warrants came to the fore on Sunday when immigration law enforcement raided a private home to make an arrest in Minneapolis, after clashing with protesters who confronted the heavily armed agents. Documents reviewed by The Associated Press revealed that the agents only had an administrative warrant — meaning there was no judge that authorized the raid on private property.

When asked, DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin didn’t provide a legal justification for the forced entry and arrest of the man, who is a Liberian national with a deportation order from 2023. She said his arrest was part of the administration’s efforts to arrest “the worst of the worst” and added that he had that a criminal history including “robbery, drug possession with the intent to sell, possession of a deadly weapon, malicious destruction and theft.”

McLaughlin didn’t specify whether he was convicted of any of those crimes, or whether his arrest was related to any criminal activity.

Vice president of policy at the National Immigration Law Center, Heidi Altman, said she couldn’t comment on that specific raid, but said that generally an officer entering a home without consent or permission could result in serious consequences.

“That is not just an illegal arrest. It’s numerous illegal actions by the officer themselves that could open up liability, not just for being sued, but potential criminal actions under state law as well,” she explained.

But in the current political climate, Altman said, it isn’t clear if there are any realistic avenues for accountability since the federal government would be responsible for investigating such a breech.

“There are layers of federal laws and regulations and policies prohibiting this kind of behavior. But then the second layer is: Is the federal government going to impose consequences?” she said.

On top of that, immigrants have less recourse after an illegal arrest or search, since the illegally obtained evidence can still be used in immigration court. It’s called the exclusionary rule, Altman explained, and the consequences that the officer may face would not undo the immediate consequences immigrants could face if they are quickly deported.

A family member reacts after federal immigration officers make an arrest Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/John Locher)

“As those legal challenges come and people are facing very, very quick detentions and deportations on the basis of these illegal arrests, there’s very little recourse in actual immigration court proceedings that allows people to have a judge disregard evidence or the actual arrest, even if it was done in this very violent, illegal manner,” Altman said.

‘Know-your-rights’ campaigns

ICE has long relied on “knock and talks” to make apprehensions, informally requesting residents to leave a home without giving any indication they plan to make an immigration arrest. As outlined in a 2020 lawsuit in which a federal judge found the practice illegal, officers tell their targets that they need them to step outside to answer a few questions. In one case, they told a woman that they were probation officers looking for her brother.

In response, activists, lawyers and local governments have launched “know-your-rights” campaigns around the country, attempting to educate people on the legal nuances of the extremely convoluted legal framework that is supposed to govern immigration law enforcement.

Many groups have published fact sheets and infographics on social media, while others facilitate meetings that go over constitutional protections that immigrants have — regardless of legal status — in interactions with federal agents.

Often groups will instruct immigrants to request to see a warrant before opening the door if an immigration officer knocks. The trainings also typically emphasize that an immigrant can refuse to open the door if law enforcement only has an administrative warrant.

The Miami Hurricanes boosted their defensive line via the transfer portal Monday evening.

Ohio State defensive tackle Jarquez Carter committed to Miami, announcing his decision on social media. He is the fourth transfer to commit to UM this offseason and the first defensive lineman. Carter was also considering Texas A&M.

Carter was a four-star prospect in the 2025 class out of Newberry High in north Florida.

The defensive lineman played in seven games (51 total snaps) in 2025.

The Hurricanes recruited Carter out of high school before he ultimately settled on the Buckeyes. He was high-school teammates with current UM defensive lineman Mykah Newton. UM likes Carter’s quickness, his strength at the point of attack and his ability to play violently, a Miami source said.

The 6-foot-2, 290-pound defensive tackle will help fill the void left by departing defensive tackles David Blay Jr., who is out of eligibility after the end of the season, and Donta Simpson, who transferred to Missouri.

General Daily Insight for January 13, 2026

When tension and healing collide, we can find wisdom amidst the chaos. Early on, the emotional Moon opposes unpredictable Uranus, bringing surprises in plans, tech, or moods to which we must adapt. By 5:33 PM EST, combative Mars squares healing Chiron, urging us to face tender spots with firm kindness, especially regarding our oldest aches. We draw the lines we aren’t willing to cross, then keep showing up for what we are willing to handle. When we choose reliability, our wounds can begin healing.

Aries

March 21 – April 19

What legacy are you building right now? Ambitious Mars squares Chiron, throwing your career drive and your personal identity into the cosmic blender. Even if you aren’t currently working or don’t strongly identify with your job, you can still build a valuable reputation. Wherever you spend most of your time, find your principles and stick to them — no matter how much others pressure you. You’re steadying the metaphorical room by choosing clarity over speed. Take the lead where it counts!

Taurus

April 20 – May 20

This afternoon favors curiosity and open minds. Your 9th House of Knowledge takes the spotlight, though it must share with your calmer 12th house. This is due to Mars and Chiron’s square, as it invites you to explore unique ideas without abandoning your emotional core. Debates can get personal quickly, so be sure to back your arguments up with facts in advance. Should quiet doubts surface, reflect upon them before making any bold statements. Opening your mind is the best way to increase your options.

Gemini

May 21 – June 20

Ideas swirl with restless, playful sparks. Tension between group efforts and individual sensitivities prompts careful handling of shared money, as fiery Mars in your 8th House Mutual Resources jabs at aching Chiron in your 11th House of Peers. If you go out to lunch, make sure everyone knows how the check will be split in advance to avoid arguments at the table. For your own finances, decide based on facts, not pressure. Then make your decisions known clearly so the plan lands with ease.

Cancer

June 21 – July 22

Having boundaries doesn’t mean you don’t care, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. With Mars in your 7th House of Links and Chiron in your 10th House of Professionality, their square could impact some business or social connections. Perhaps someone wants to be your friend after a group project, but you’re not interested in spending more time together. Make an effort to let them down gently — though you could give them a chance! This might signal the start of an enjoyable friendship.

Leo

July 23 – August 22

Pressure rises, but creativity can find a path through it. Aggressive Mars squares vulnerable Chiron, energizing your 6th House of Health and your growth zone, asking you to protect your energy as you refine supportive habits. If a co-worker interrupts, feel free to request that they return later — they should understand your methods. That said, if you can help them quickly, it may be more efficient to share your knowledge first so you can get back to your original plans without future distractions.

Virgo

August 23 – September 22

Today is like a game of chess — even your small moves matter. Don’t worry, you can handle it! Mars and Chiron are sparring, potentially lighting some fires around creative matters and close relationships. You’re ready to refine a rough draft (literally or metaphorically) and keep the focus on quality over quantity. Also, be sure to celebrate small wins to keep your motivation high. Deeper feelings could surface with little warning, but you can share them with trusted people at a pace that feels safe.

Libra

September 23 – October 22

Don’t lie to yourself in your home — it should be a safe place for truth to emerge. This is especially vital as Mars in your 4th House of Memory zaps Chiron in your sociable 7th house. If you aren’t happy with your domestic situation, it’s time to do something about it. You may need to renegotiate chores with a housemate or decide what truly matters for your peace of mind. Have patience as you figure out what’s realistic to ask of others and yourself.

Scorpio

October 23 – November 21

The truth isn’t always easy to handle — but today, you’ve got the strength to make sure it’s heard. Hot-headed Mars and measured Chiron are fussing over your communication style and your daily habits, which means it’s time to think about how you speak on a daily basis. How do you ask others for favors, and how do they respond? If someone dodges your requests, try asking a clarifying question to avoid hidden assumptions. Honesty clears the air and deepens mutual trust.

Sagittarius

November 22 – December 21

Confidence grows as money choices show clarity. Practical courage lifts your finances as energetic Mars squares vulnerable Chiron in your 2nd House of Accounting, guiding you to spend wisely while respecting personal values. You could cancel an impulse order or revisit a subscription, prioritizing options that have already proved their value. If fun plans from your 5th House of Creativity and Play tempt your budget, look for a lower-cost version that still feels joyful. Being choosy right now builds your overall financial freedom.

Capricorn

December 22 – January 19

Discomfort isn’t necessarily a bad thing today. It can sharpen your focus, especially once Mars and Chiron meet up for their engaging square. They’re challenging you to respect yourself by releasing outdated self-criticism. You may reset your goals to better fit your true ambitions. If family gets in your way, you can acknowledge their demands without abandoning the future you actually want. Once they leave you be, go ahead and share your plan with someone supportive to lock in momentum.

Aquarius

January 20 – February 18

Your resolve is stronger than ever, but it may not look like you imagined. With vigorous Mars and considerate Chiron boosting your mental capacity, progress is more likely to occur behind the scenes or in quiet moments. If you’re struggling to focus, try journaling through a knotty thought until it loosens. If a message demands attention, reply after centering yourself so your words land kindly. A short walk could also encourage an overactive mind to chill out. Protect your energy to serve what matters.

Pisces

February 19 – March 20

A tender ripple can become a tidal wave of momentum. Your 11th House of Social Networks stirs as passionate Mars squares Chiron, encouraging you to lead a group effort while honoring your sensitivity. Coordinate a community meeting and set a simple frame for the outcome so everyone feels included. Look for practical ways of handling prohibitive costs, like renting tools instead of buying them or finding volunteers with the skills you need. When you work as a team, you can celebrate as one!

By CLAIRE RUSH

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — The FBI said in a court document made public Monday that it had found no surveillance or other video of a Border Patrol agent shooting and wounding two people in a pickup truck during an immigration enforcement operation in Portland, Oregon, last week.

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Agents told investigators that one of their colleagues opened fire Thursday after the driver put the truck in reverse and repeatedly slammed into an unoccupied car the agents had rented, smashing its headlights and knocking off its front bumper. The agents said they feared for their own safety and that of the public, the document said.

The FBI has interviewed four of the six agents on the scene, the document said. It did not identify the agent who fired the shots.

The shooting, which came one day after a federal agent shot and killed a driver in Minneapolis, prompted protests over federal agents’ aggressive tactics during immigration enforcement operations. The Department of Homeland Security has said the two people in the truck entered the U.S. illegally and were affiliated with the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua.

None of the six agents was recording body camera footage, and investigators have uncovered no surveillance or other video footage of the shooting, FBI Special Agent Daniel Jeffreys wrote in an affidavit supporting aggravated assault and property damage charges against the driver, Luis David Nino-Moncada.

The truck drove away after the shooting, which occurred in the parking lot of a medical office building. Nino-Moncada called 911 after arriving at an apartment complex several minutes away. He was placed in FBI custody after being treated for a gunshot wound to the arm and abdomen.

During an initial appearance Monday afternoon in federal court in Portland, he wore a white sweatshirt and sweatpants and appeared to hold out his left arm gingerly at an angle. An interpreter translated the judge’s comments for him. The judge ordered that he remain in detention and scheduled a preliminary hearing for Wednesday.

The agent’s affidavit said that after being read his rights, Nino-Moncada “admitted to intentionally ramming the Border Patrol vehicle in an attempt to flee, and he stated that he knew they were immigration enforcement vehicles.”

His passenger, Yorlenys Betzabeth Zambrano-Contreras, was hospitalized after being shot in the chest and on Monday was being held at a private immigration detention facility in Tacoma, Washington, according to an online detainee locator system maintained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. She faces a charge of illegal entry into the U.S., which federal prosecutors in Texas filed last week. The federal public defender’s office for the Western District of Texas did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Nino-Moncada and Zambrano-Contreras are Venezuela nationals and entered the U.S. illegally in 2022 and 2023, respectively, the Department of Homeland Security said. It identified Nino-Moncada as an associate of Tren de Aragua and Zambrano-Contreras as involved in a prostitution ring run by the gang.

Law enforcement officials work the scene following reports that federal immigration officers shot and wounded people in Portland, Ore., Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026. (AP Photo/Jenny Kane)

“Anyone who crosses the red line of assaulting law enforcement will be met with the full force of this Justice Department,” Attorney General Pam Bondi said Monday in a news release announcing charges against Nino-Moncada. “This man — an illegal alien with ties to a foreign terrorist organization — should NEVER have been in our country to begin with, and we will ensure he NEVER walks free in America again.”

Oregon Federal Public Defender Fidel Cassino-DuCloux, whose office represents Nino-Moncada, said in a statement last week that the shooting and the accusations against Nino-Moncada “follow a well-worn playbook that the government has developed to justify the dangerous and unprofessional conduct of its agents.”

Portland Police Chief Bob Day confirmed last week that the pair had “some nexus” to the gang. Day said the two came to the attention of police during an investigation of a July shooting believed to have been carried out by gang members, but they were not identified as suspects.

Zambrano-Contreras was previously arrested for prostitution, Day said, and Nino-Moncada was present when a search warrant was served in that case.

Johnson reported from Seattle.

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