Wrong‑Target Arrest Sparks County Investigation
The Raid: Guns Drawn, Wrong Man Taken
In a shocking turn of events, federal agents stormed a St. Paul home in January, guns drawn, and forcibly removed ChongLy “Scott” Thao—a U.S. citizen—from his residence. Thao was left standing in the snow in nothing but his underwear and sandals, with no warrant ever presented.
Local authorities are now questioning the legality of the operation, suggesting it may have constituted kidnapping, burglary, and false imprisonment.
A Case of Misidentification
The raid was part of a federal operation targeting two individuals labeled as "criminal illegal aliens"—one of whom was already incarcerated in a Minneapolis prison. The second suspect was never found at the location, raising serious concerns about misidentification.
County Attorney John Choi and Sheriff Bob Fletcher reported that Thao was held for nearly an hour during questioning before being unceremoniously returned home with no explanation.
Federal Agency Defends Its Actions
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) countered that agents do not engage in kidnapping and insisted the raid was justified by a warrant and intelligence linking alleged sexual predators to the property.
The DHS also claimed that a U.S. citizen residing at the home refused to provide fingerprints or facial recognition, prompting the prolonged detention of occupants—a practice they defended as "standard for public safety and officer protection."
Broader Concerns Over Federal Tactics
This incident adds to growing scrutiny of federal enforcement actions in Minneapolis and St. Paul, particularly after a previous operation resulted in the deaths of two American citizens.
As county officials demand answers, the investigation into the raid’s legality and execution continues—raising questions about due process, federal accountability, and the rights of U.S. citizens caught in the crossfire.
