Image: USA Today

Ramsey County Investigates ICE for Kidnapping US Citizen in St. Paul

13 April, 2026.USA.15 sources

Key Takeaways

Ramsey County investigates ICE arrest of ChongLy Thao as possible kidnapping, burglary, false imprisonment.
Arrest occurred January 18; Thao detained in freezing weather wearing Crocs and a plaid blanket.
Ramsey County officials Choi and Fletcher lead; seek DHS information in Metro Surge probe.

Ramsey County ICE Probe

Ramsey County launched a criminal investigation into the ICE arrest of ChongLy Scott Thao.

“Ramsey County investigates ICE arrest of US citizen in St”

5 EYEWITNESS NEWS

Choi said the probe involves a felonious allegation of kidnapping, illegal detainment, false imprisonment.

5 EYEWITNESS NEWS

ICE had been seeking two convicted sex offenders, but Thao had never seen the men and they did not live with him.

The Minnesota Department of Corrections said one of the two was still in prison.

Survivor Account and Strike

Thao was taken outside in just his underwear and a blanket in freezing conditions.

The Bangladesh Garment Workers' Federation called a nationwide strike in response to the Rahman Textile fire.

Associated Press

Federation president Kalpona Akter said Rahman Textile had been cited for fire safety violations in 2024 but had continued operating.

Labour Minister Tahmina Akhter pledged an immediate government investigation.

Supply Chain Scrutiny

Rahman Textile produced clothing for European brands including Hessen and BrandBox.

“Officials in Ramsey County, Minnesota, said Monday they are launching an investigation into the arrest of a Hmong American man as possible kidnapping, burglary and false imprisonment by federal agents”