Rochester Man and Recent Organ Donation Recipient Detained by ICE

Authorities have given mixed messages about his medical status and legal status in the U.S.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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A Rochester man who recently received a kidney transplant was detained by federal immigration officials on Thursday. Witnesses say his car was rammed and a window was broken during the incident. The man's friends and family say he is permitted to be in the U.S. and they are trying to ensure he receives his critical anti-rejection medication while in custody.

Why it matters

This case raises questions about the treatment of immigrants who are following legal processes, as well as concerns about the safety and civil liberties of detainees, especially those with urgent medical needs.

The details

According to Rep. Kim Hicks, a friend of the man's family, the Hispanic man was delivering groceries when he was detained by immigration officials near Civic Center Drive and Broadway in Rochester. Hicks said the man has his medication, but there has been confusion and conflicting information from officials about his access to the life-saving drugs. An attorney who tried to visit the man was initially told a medical note would be needed for him to receive the medication, but officials later said he was already getting the medication.

  • The man was detained by immigration officials on Thursday, February 5, 2026.
  • As of midday Friday, February 6, 2026, the man had not seen an attorney.

The players

Kim Hicks

A DFL state representative who is a friend of the man's family and has been in contact with them about the situation.

The Rochester Man

A Hispanic man who recently received a kidney transplant and was detained by immigration officials while delivering groceries.

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What they’re saying

“It's a game of telephone,”

— Rep. Kim Hicks, Friend of the man's family (postbulletin.com)

“I do not understand how picking up law-abiding immigrants who are following the process benefits anyone. I don't understand how ramming a car and breaking their window benefits anyone. This doesn't align with Minnesota values or the constitution.”

— Rep. Kim Hicks, Friend of the man's family (postbulletin.com)

What’s next

The man's attorney is trying to confirm if he has been transferred to a facility in Texas as the man told his family. Officials will need to ensure the man continues to receive his critical anti-rejection medication while in custody.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex and often opaque nature of immigration enforcement, as well as the potential risks to the health and safety of detainees, especially those with urgent medical needs. It raises broader questions about balancing public safety, civil liberties, and humane treatment of immigrants.