On a Sunday afternoon in St. Paul, Minnesota, a startling incident unfolded at the home of ChongLy “Saly” Scott Thao. Federal immigration agents forcibly entered his residence, armed and drawing attention to their aggressive tactics. Thao, a 57-year-old Hmong elder and naturalized U.S. citizen, was handcuffed and taken outside in freezing temperatures, wearing only boxer shorts, Crocs, and a children’s blanket. The scene was recorded by witnesses, who expressed their outrage through whistles and honks.
Details of the Incident
According to family accounts, federal agents cited a mistaken identity during this operation. They were actually searching for two convicted sex offenders but raided Thao’s home, where he lives with family, rather than targeting the intended suspects. Thao’s sister-in-law, Louansee Moua, reported that agents drove him around for nearly an hour, during which he was questioned and fingerprinted, before they realized he had no criminal history.
Family Background
ChongLy Thao’s family has lived in their current location for two years and is unaware of the individuals being sought by authorities. Thao has no criminal record in Minnesota, as confirmed by court documents. Moua emphasized the trauma inflicted on Thao and his family, pointing out that he was still grieving the loss of his mother during this incident.
Response from Authorities
Tricia McLaughlin from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security claimed that the agents were indeed looking for two individuals—Lue Moua and Kongmeng Vang—who are wanted for serious offenses including sexual assault and domestic violence. Authorities maintained that Thao’s home was linked to these fugitives.
Civil Rights Concerns
Moua criticized the tactics used by ICE agents, stating they did not present a warrant or even request identification prior to the detainment. Complaints have been raised about the violation of basic human rights and due process. The family’s experience has prompted Moua to reach out to various legal organizations including the ACLU and the Minnesota Attorney General’s office.
Community Support and Fundraising
In light of the traumatic experience, Moua has started a GoFundMe campaign to cover legal and medical expenses for her brother-in-law, who suffers from severe psoriasis. As of Monday afternoon, the campaign had raised approximately $12,000. She voiced her position emphatically, stating, “No family should experience this. No child should witness this. And no U.S. citizen should be treated this way.”
