According to internal Department of Homeland Security files disclosed in federal court and reviewed by the Guardian, undercover agents monitored activists opposing ICE enforcement actions in Minnesota. One agent, operating under the username “peanutbutterjelly” in Signal chats with protesters, documented conversations, screenshot plans for demonstrations, and offered assistance with fundraising and volunteer recruitment.
The documents indicate the agent’s stated aim was to “gather intelligence regarding any organized networks of conspirators.” The surveillance targeted individuals and groups who had publicly opposed ICE’s activities in the state, which have included increased arrests and deportations.
The recordings and chat logs were preserved as part of an ongoing legal case, though full details of the scope and duration of the operation remain unclear. The DHS has not commented on the specific incidents described in the files, but the agency has defended surveillance of potential threats to public safety.
Civil liberties advocates argue that the actions amount to unconstitutional monitoring of protected political speech, as the protesters were exercising First Amendment rights. The case highlights ongoing tensions between federal immigration enforcement efforts and community opposition, particularly in states like Minnesota where sanctuary policies have been debated.
The Guardian’s reporting does not identify the undercover agents by name, but the documents suggest that multiple officers were involved in similar roles. The Signal chat logs show that the agent built trust with activists over months, attending planning meetings and offering practical help before reporting back to DHS.
No evidence has yet emerged that any of the monitored protesters engaged in illegal activity beyond peaceful demonstration. The case is expected to fuel further scrutiny of federal surveillance programs targeting activist groups.