Federal Law Enforcement Operation Sparks Protest in Hopkins, Vehicle Damaged
Published: February 9th, 2026
HOPKINS MN — St. Louis Park police assisted local authorities Monday afternoon after a large protest formed in response to a federal law enforcement operation in Hopkins.
According to a statement from the St. Louis Park Police Department, officers were dispatched at 4:28 p.m. on Feb. 9 to the 1100 block of Hiawatha Avenue at the request of the Hopkins Police Department. Upon arrival, officers encountered federal law enforcement agents, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, who had been conducting an operation in the area.
A large crowd had gathered to protest the federal agents’ presence. During the incident, one of the federal vehicles sustained damage after its tires were slashed.
Officers from multiple agencies worked to maintain public safety by clearing a path in the roadway and separating protesters from the federal agents. This allowed the agents to leave the scene with the damaged vehicle without further incident.
After departing Hopkins, federal agents regrouped at Knollwood Mall so the damaged vehicle could be towed. Shortly thereafter, many individuals who had protested in Hopkins relocated to the mall area. Officers again ensured a safe separation between protesters and federal agents while awaiting the tow truck.
A tow truck arrived a short time later and removed the damaged vehicle. All parties cleared the area without additional incidents being reported.
In its statement, the St. Louis Park Police Department emphasized its support for the public’s right to peaceably assemble and exercise freedom of speech and expression. The department noted that its crowd management policy is focused on applying an appropriate level of direction and control to protect life, property, and essential facilities while maintaining public peace and order during public assemblies and First Amendment activities.