O’Keefe Media Group conducted an undercover investigation inside a series of “ICE Out” protests in downtown Minneapolis, revealing a loosely connected network of activist organizations, union affiliates, and nonprofit groups coordinating demonstrations that devolved into lawless, police-free zones hostile to journalists and perceived outsiders.
Our undercover journalists traveled to Minneapolis on January 23, the day before a second ICE-related shooting in the city, to document protests sparked by the fatal shooting of Renee Good. What the team encountered was an environment where protesters openly discussed organizational backing, interrogated members of the press, and threatened or attacked anyone they suspected of being federal agents.
James and OMG undercover journalists were followed to multiple locations, including hotels, and received threatening text messages from burner numbers. In response, the team changed hotels and increased security measures, including wearing ballistic protection.
Through undercover reporting, on-camera admissions, and review of public financial records, the investigation raises serious questions about the role of activist organizations, union affiliates, and taxpayer-funded nonprofits in fueling sustained unrest and about the growing risks faced by journalists attempting to report from inside these demonstrations.
