A federal court intervenes to protect lawfully resettled refugees from unprecedented enforcement operation

Introduction

On Wednesday, January 28th 2026 a U.S. District Court judge issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) that strikes at the heart of one of the Trump administration's most controversial immigration enforcement initiatives: Operation PAARIS (Post-Admission Refugee Reverification and Integrity Strengthening). This landmark ruling has immediate implications for Minnesota's refugee community and raises fundamental questions about the limits of executive immigration enforcement power.

What Is Operation PAARIS?

Announced by the Department of Homeland Security earlier this month, Operation PAARIS represents an unprecedented initiative to reexamine "thousands" of refugee cases through new background checks. The operation specifically targets refugees who have already been lawfully admitted to the United States after completing the rigorous vetting process required under federal law.

The USCIS Website states "Begun in mid-December and now referring cases to ICE, Operation PARRIS is part of a broader strategy to implement enhanced screening standards under Executive Order 14161 and Presidential Proclamation 10949. These directives require federal agencies to identify and implement new vetting enhancements to safeguard the nation from foreign terrorists and other public safety threats.".

The program's stated purpose is to reverify and strengthen the integrity of refugee admissions. However, the implementation has involved Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents arresting and detaining lawfully present refugees in their homes, in their cars, and even on their way to religious services or grocery stores.

The Legal Framework: Why Operation PAARIS Violates Federal Law

The 1951 Convention and 1980 Refugee Act

Operation PAARIS's scheme of detaining lawfully present refugees constitutes an unprecedented assault on core human rights enshrined in both the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and the 1980 Refugee Act.

The 1980 Refugee Act, which implemented the United States' obligations under the 1951 Convention, established specific legal protections for refugees. These individuals have:

A legal right to be present in the United States
A right to work and support themselves
A right to live peacefully without arbitrary detention
Protection from being returned to countries where they face persecution

Judge Tunheim's Findings

The Honorable John Tunheim, U.S. District Court Judge in Minneapolis found that ICE agents likely violated multiple federal statutes by arresting lawful refugees and subjecting them to additional interrogations without warrants or probable cause. In his strongly worded opinion, Judge Tunheim wrote:

"Refugees have a legal right to be in the United States, a right to work, a right to live peacefully - and importantly, a right not to be subjected to the terror of being arrested and detained without warrants or cause in their homes or on their way to religious services or to buy groceries."

The judge emphasized that these refugees "have undergone rigorous background checks and vetting, been approved by multiple federal agencies for entry, been given permission to work, received support from the government, and been resettled in the United States."

What the Temporary Restraining Order Means

Immediate Relief

Judge Tunheim's order requires that any refugees detained under Operation PAARIS be immediately released from custody. This provides critical relief to individuals who have been swept up in enforcement operations over the past two weeks.

Scope of the Order

What the TRO prohibits:

Arrest and detention of lawfully admitted refugees without warrants or probable cause
Subjecting refugees to interrogations as part of Operation PAARIS enforcement activities
Terror tactics that prevent refugees from living peacefully in their communities

What the TRO does NOT prevent: The government retains the authority to investigate and enforce immigration laws. The court explicitly stated that the Trump administration can continue to review refugees' status through lawful means. The critical limitation is that the government cannot arrest and detain refugees who entered the United States legally after completing the extreme vetting process required under federal law.

The Minnesota Context

Minnesota has emerged as the focal point of the Trump administration's refugee enforcement crackdown. The state is home to significant refugee populations, particularly from East Africa and Southeast Asia, who have built lives and contributed to their communities over many years.

Violent Enforcement Tactics

As has been the case with ICE arrests across the United States, the crackdown in Minnesota has often been violent. Reports indicate that immigrants and refugees have been dragged out of their homes and cars, placed in local detention facilities, and then transferred to sites in Texas, where conservative federal judges may be more aligned with Trump administration policies.

Sarah Kahn, senior staff attorney at the Center for Human Rights and Constitutional Law, stated: "Two weeks ago, armed ICE agents began imprisoning refugees who fled persecution, came here lawfully, and built a life in Minnesota. Through this order, the judge recognized that this brutal and senseless practice is illegal and required that the government respect longstanding protections for refugees."

Tragic Consequences

The enforcement operations in Minnesota have had devastating consequences beyond the refugee community. Two U.S. citizens have been killed in the state by ICE agents as they were observing and documenting the agency's activities—a tragic reminder of how aggressive enforcement can endanger entire communities.

Understanding Refugee Status and Legal Protections

The Vetting Process

It's crucial to understand what refugees undergo before being admitted to the United States. The refugee admissions process is one of the most rigorous immigration processes in existence, typically involving:

Multiple security background checks by various federal agencies
In-person interviews with Department of Homeland Security officers
Medical examinations
Cultural orientation requirements
Approval from multiple federal agencies before entry

The Path to Permanent Residency

Refugees admitted to the United States are placed on a path to lawful permanent resident status. Under federal law, refugees may apply for a green card one year after admission. Many of the individuals targeted under Operation PAARIS are awaiting this status adjustment—they "followed the rules, and are waiting to have their status adjusted to lawful permanent residents of the United States," as Judge Tunheim noted.

Critical Safety Tips: What to Do If Approached by Federal Agents

If you are approached by ICE or other federal immigration enforcement agents, your safety and understanding of your rights are paramount. Here are essential guidelines to follow:

1. Do Not Run Away from Federal Agents

Running from federal agents can escalate a situation and may be interpreted as evading law enforcement, which could lead to additional charges or use of force. Even if you are frightened, remain calm and stay where you are. Running does not help your legal situation and can make it significantly worse.

2. Do Not Block Their Way or Physically Resist

Physical resistance or blocking agents from performing their duties can result in additional criminal charges, including obstruction of justice or assault on a federal officer. Keep your hands visible, do not make sudden movements, and comply with basic safety instructions while still asserting your rights.

3. Ask for Any Warrant and the Reason You Are Being Stopped

You have the right to ask whether agents have a warrant. Specifically ask:

"Do you have a warrant signed by a judge?"
"Why am I being stopped?"
"Am I free to leave?"

If agents have a warrant, ask to see it and examine it carefully. A valid judicial warrant must be signed by a judge and should specify your name and address. An administrative warrant (Form I-200 or I-205) issued by ICE is NOT the same as a judicial warrant and does not give agents the authority to enter your home without your consent.

Important: If agents do not have a judicial warrant, you do not have to let them into your home. You can speak to them through a closed door or step outside and close the door behind you.

4. You Have the Right to Remain Silent

This is one of your most important constitutional rights. You do not have to answer questions about:

Where you were born
Your immigration status
How you entered the United States
Anything else about your background

You can say: "I am exercising my right to remain silent" or "I do not wish to answer any questions."

Exception: If you are driving a vehicle and are stopped by police or federal agents, you must provide your driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance if requested. However, you still do not have to answer questions beyond providing these documents.

5. You Have the Right to an Attorney

You have the constitutional right to speak with an attorney before answering any questions or signing any documents. Clearly state: "I want to speak with my attorney" or "I will not answer questions without my lawyer present."

Never sign anything without first consulting with an immigration attorney. Federal agents may present documents for you to sign, including:

Voluntary departure forms
Statements waiving your right to a hearing
Stipulated removal orders

Signing these documents can permanently affect your ability to remain in or return to the United States. Always consult an attorney first.

Alarming Reports: Warrantless Home Entries and Forced Entry

Breaking Down Doors Without Judicial Warrants

Recent reports from Minnesota and other locations have documented deeply troubling incidents where federal agents have forcibly entered homes by breaking down doors without valid judicial warrants. These actions raise serious constitutional concerns under the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures.

What the Constitution requires: Federal agents generally need a warrant signed by a judge to enter your home. An administrative ICE warrant is not sufficient. Forced entry without a judicial warrant violates your constitutional rights except in very limited emergency circumstances (such as hot pursuit of a fleeing suspect or imminent danger).

What we're seeing: Despite these constitutional protections, some agents conducting Operation PAARIS raids have:

Broken down doors without announcing themselves properly
Entered homes without consent and without judicial warrants
Used force against residents who were lawfully present
Conducted searches without legal authority

If Agents Force Entry Into Your Home

If federal agents force their way into your home without your consent and without showing you a valid judicial warrant:

Do not physically resist. While the entry may be unconstitutional, physical resistance can endanger you and your family and may result in criminal charges.
Clearly state that you do not consent. Say loudly and clearly: "I do not consent to your entry into my home" and "I do not consent to any search."
Ask repeatedly for a warrant. Continue to ask: "Do you have a warrant signed by a judge?" If they show you a document, ask to photograph it or write down the details.
Document everything possible:
- If safe to do so, have someone record video or audio
- Write down badge numbers and names
- Note the time, date, and exactly what occurred
- Identify any witnesses
- Photograph any property damage
Do not answer questions. Exercise your right to remain silent and ask for an attorney.
Report the incident immediately. Contact an immigration attorney and consider filing complaints with:
- The ICE Office of Professional Responsibility
- The Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General
- Local civil rights organizations

Your Rights After an Unlawful Entry

Property damage: If agents damage your property during an unlawful entry, document the damage with photographs and obtain repair estimates. This evidence may be important for future legal action.

Evidence obtained illegally: Any evidence gathered during an unconstitutional search may be suppressible in immigration proceedings. This is why documentation is critical.

Civil remedies: You may have grounds for a civil rights lawsuit against the federal government for Fourth Amendment violations. Consult with an attorney about your options.

Constitutional violations: Even if agents later claim they had "exigent circumstances" or other justifications for warrantless entry, these claims can be challenged in court with proper legal representation.

Additional Safety Recommendations

Prepare an Emergency Plan:

Keep your attorney's contact information readily available and posted where all family members can see it
Ensure family members know what to do if you are detained
Have copies of important immigration documents in a safe place that family members can access
Designate a trusted person to care for your children if you are detained
Keep a "know your rights" card with you at all times

Secure Your Home:

Consider installing a video doorbell or security camera to document any encounters
Keep doors and windows locked
Do not open the door unless you verify who is there
If agents come to your door, you can speak to them through the door without opening it

Document the Encounter:

If possible, have someone record or photograph the interaction from a safe distance
Write down badge numbers, names, vehicle information, and details of what occurred as soon as possible
Note the date, time, location, and any witnesses present
If agents damage property, photograph the damage immediately

Stay Calm and Respectful:

Even if you feel the agents are violating your rights, remain calm and polite
Do not argue, insult, or threaten the agents
Save your legal arguments for court with your attorney
Prioritize your physical safety and that of your family

Community Support:

Develop a network with neighbors and community members who can serve as witnesses
Share information about encounters with trusted community organizations
Attend know-your-rights trainings offered by legal aid organizations

What This Means for Minnesota Refugees

If You Are a Lawfully Admitted Refugee

The temporary restraining order provides important protections, but the situation remains fluid. Here's what you should know:

You have legal rights. As Judge Tunheim made clear, you have a legal right to be in the United States, to work, and to live peacefully. Forced entry into your home without a judicial warrant violates your Fourth Amendment rights.
Document everything. If ICE agents approach you or enter your home, documentation is critical. Follow the safety tips above and gather as much evidence as possible.
Know your rights. You have the right to remain silent, the right to speak with an attorney, and the right to refuse entry to your home without a judicial warrant.
Seek legal counsel immediately. If you are approached by ICE, if agents enter your home, or if you have concerns about your status, contact an immigration attorney right away.
The order applies in Minnesota. While this TRO specifically addresses enforcement in Minnesota, the legal principles may have broader implications.

If You Have Been Detained

If you or a family member has been detained under Operation PAARIS, you should be released immediately under Judge Tunheim's order. Contact an immigration attorney or legal aid organization to ensure your rights are being enforced. If you were arrested following a warrantless home entry, this information is crucial to your defense.

The Broader Constitutional Questions

Judge Tunheim's opinion raises profound questions about American values and the rule of law. He wrote:

"At its best, America serves as a haven of individual liberties in a world too often full of tyranny and cruelty. We abandon that ideal when we subject our neighbors to fear and chaos."

This case presents fundamental questions about:

The limits of executive authority in immigration enforcement
The balance between security concerns and established legal protections
The treatment of vulnerable populations who have fled persecution
The sanctity of due process and Fourth Amendment rights
The use of force in immigration enforcement operations

The reports of forced, warrantless home entries make these questions even more urgent. The Fourth Amendment exists precisely to protect all people in the United States—regardless of immigration status—from unreasonable government intrusion into their homes.

What Happens Next?

Legal Proceedings

A temporary restraining order is just that—temporary. The court will likely schedule further proceedings to determine whether a preliminary injunction should be issued, which would provide longer-term protections while the underlying legal questions are resolved.

The Trump administration may appeal Judge Tunheim's decision or seek to modify the order. Refugees and their advocates should remain vigilant as this legal battle continues.

Documentation of Constitutional Violations

As reports of forced entries and other constitutional violations continue to emerge, documentation becomes increasingly important. Each documented incident strengthens the legal case against Operation PAARIS and may support future litigation to protect refugee rights.

Continued Enforcement Authority

It's important to understand that the government retains its authority to investigate potential fraud or security concerns in the refugee program. What the court has prohibited is the arrest and detention of lawfully admitted refugees without proper legal basis—not all investigation or enforcement activity. However, this authority does not extend to violating constitutional rights through warrantless home invasions.

Resources and Support

If you are a refugee in Minnesota or elsewhere who has concerns about Operation PAARIS or your immigration status:

Contact a qualified immigration attorney immediately - especially if agents have entered your home or detained you
Reach out to legal aid organizations such as:
- International Refugee Assistance Project
- Center for Human Rights and Constitutional Law
- American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
- Local immigrant rights organizations
Document any interactions with immigration enforcement, especially forced entries
Know your rights and do not sign anything without legal counsel
Keep emergency contact information readily available
Report constitutional violations to oversight agencies

Conclusion

Judge Tunheim's temporary restraining order represents a critical check on executive overreach in immigration enforcement. Operation PAARIS's targeting of lawfully admitted refugees who have already undergone extreme vetting violates both the letter and spirit of federal refugee law.

The emerging reports of forced, warrantless home entries add another deeply disturbing dimension to these enforcement operations. Breaking down doors without judicial warrants violates the Fourth Amendment rights that protect everyone in America, regardless of immigration status. These tactics are not only unconstitutional—they terrorize communities and betray the fundamental values that distinguish America as a nation of laws.

As this legal battle continues, Minnesota's refugee communities—and refugee communities nationwide—deserve protection under the law they followed to build their lives in America. The court has affirmed that refugees have "a right not to be subjected to the terror of being arrested and detained without warrants or cause."

Understanding your rights and how to safely respond to federal agents is crucial during this uncertain time. Remember: stay calm, do not run, do not physically resist, ask for warrants, clearly state you do not consent to entry or searches, exercise your right to remain silent, and always request to speak with an attorney. Document everything you can safely document.

This is not just about immigration policy—it's about fundamental American values of due process, the rule of law, protection against unreasonable searches and seizures, and our nation's commitment to serving as a refuge for those fleeing persecution.

If you have questions about your refugee status, immigration rights, contact Gobena & Associates for experienced legal counsel. We are committed to protecting the rights of refugees and immigrants in Minnesota and North Carolina.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law is complex and constantly changing. If you have specific legal questions or concerns, please consult with a qualified immigration attorney.