Operation Twin Shield: USCIS Crackdown on Marriage and Asylum Fraud in Minneapolis
A recent large-scale investigation conducted by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in Minneapolis targeted individuals involved in marriage and asylum fraud. Operation Twin Shield focused on 1,000 cases, resulting in findings of fraud, non-compliance, or public safety and national security concerns in 275 cases. This operation was made possible by a new rule that expanded USCIS's law enforcement duties.
During the investigation, 44 cases were referred to ICE or given a notice to appear in court, with two individuals detained on-site. USCIS uncovered various instances of fraud, including sham marriages and fabricated documents. USCIS Director Joseph Edlow emphasized the agency's commitment to combatting immigration fraud and working with partners like ICE and the FBI to hold bad actors accountable.
The operation, which took place between Sept. 19 and 28 in the Minneapolis-St. Paul region, marked the first time USCIS dedicated resources on such a large scale to a single geographic area. As investigations continue, USCIS anticipates an increase in notices to appear, referrals to ICE, and adverse adjudications. The agency cited Executive Order 14161 as the guiding framework for the operation, emphasizing the importance of protecting the U.S. from public safety threats.
This enforcement action in Minneapolis could serve as a model for future crackdowns in other parts of the country. With ongoing administrative investigations, USCIS expects the number of arrests and court referrals to rise. The agency's heightened focus on vetting applicants and combating fraud reflects a shift in enforcement posture under the current administration.