Tensions Inside the Hospital
The case unfolded during a period of heightened immigration enforcement activity in Minnesota, part of a broader federal operation that has increased the presence of immigration officers inside medical facilities. Employees at Hennepin County Medical Center say the environment has grown increasingly strained as officers remain stationed at patients’ bedsides for extended periods.
In this case, tensions escalated after agents attempted to shackle the patient to his hospital bed. Medical staff objected, citing hospital policy that restricts restraints unless clinically necessary. A confrontation followed, drawing in hospital security and senior administrators.
Staff members said the patient’s attempts to stand and move were typical of someone suffering from a traumatic brain injury, not an escape attempt. After negotiations, officers later agreed to remove the restraints in exchange for constant supervision by hospital personnel.
Hospital workers also described broader concerns, including armed agents lingering in hallways, questioning individuals about citizenship, and creating an atmosphere of intimidation inside critical care units. Some employees said they altered daily routines to avoid encounters and relied on encrypted messaging to share concerns with colleagues.
Hospital leadership later issued updated guidance reminding staff that federal agents cannot access patients or medical records without proper legal authorization. The guidance also reaffirmed that individuals under federal custody remain patients first and must be treated under standard medical protocols.
