Secret Files Reveal Surge in ICE Use of Force Under Noem

Emails show DHS knew of 400% increase in use-of-force incidents almost a year before fatal Minneapolis shootings.

Feb. 18, 2026 at 9:55pm

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Internal Department of Homeland Security emails obtained by a watchdog group reveal that officials were aware of a massive 400% increase in use-of-force incidents by ICE agents under the Trump administration's immigration crackdown, almost a year before two protesters were fatally shot by ICE agents in Minneapolis.

Why it matters

The revelations contradict claims by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, dubbed "ICE Barbie", that her agents were "following the law" and "running their operations according to training". The surge in use of force and the subsequent fatal shootings have sparked outrage, with polls showing a majority of voters disapproving of ICE's performance and nearly half supporting the agency's abolition.

The details

The emails show that by March 2025, DHS knew it was facing a more than 400% increase in use-of-force incidents involving immigration enforcement officials. At least one person is reported to have died as a result of those encounters, including an incident where agents smashed a woman's car window and tased an undocumented migrant. However, the emails "do not reflect particular urgency on the part of ICE leadership to respond to that trend", with officials instead focusing on publicly discussing a rise in assaults against officers.

  • In March 2025, DHS was aware of the 400% increase in use-of-force incidents.
  • In January 2026, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem told reporters her agents were "following the law" and "running their operations according to training", just a week after the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis.
  • In January 2026, ICE agents also killed a second protester, Alex Pretti, in Minneapolis.

The players

Kristi Noem

The Homeland Security Secretary, dubbed "ICE Barbie" for her habit of cosplaying as an immigration official.

Renee Nicole Good

A widowed mother of three who was shot dead by ICE agents in a Minneapolis street.

Alex Pretti

A protester who was killed by ICE agents in Minneapolis.

American Oversight

A watchdog group that obtained the internal DHS emails.

Donald Trump

The former president who was carrying out a nationwide immigration crackdown, including Operation Metro Surge in Minnesota.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.