MINNEAPOLIS — The union representing 911 paramedics and EMTs in Hennepin County says an increased federal law enforcement presence tied to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity is pushing the region’s emergency medical system toward a breaking point.
In a statement released to EMS1, the Hennepin County Association of Paramedics and EMTs (HCAPE) said its members have seen a sharp rise in calls for service amid ongoing federal operations in the Twin Cities, particularly in Minneapolis and communities of color. The group said the escalation has coincided with protests, the use of crowd-control agents and multiple residents being shot.
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HCAPE represents paramedics, basic life support EMTs and emergency medical dispatchers with Hennepin EMS, which serves Minneapolis and surrounding suburbs. The association said its members have a long history of responding during major crises, including the I-35W bridge collapse, the COVID-19 pandemic, civil unrest following George Floyd’s murder and multiple mass-casualty incidents.
According to the statement, the recent increase in federal activity has created additional challenges for EMS crews in the field. The union said some residents are delaying or avoiding medical care out of fear, while protesters have been exposed to pepper spray and tear gas. At the same time, the group said local law enforcement agencies are struggling to co-respond on potentially dangerous calls as resources are stretched thin.
“Despite the stated aim of this federal operation, it is not making this part of America safer,” the association said, adding that basic services are being impacted daily.
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HCAPE emphasized that it is a small, independent labor association with fewer than 200 members, led by full-time paramedics and emergency medical dispatchers who live and work in the community. The group said its primary goal is to keep its members safe while continuing to provide high-quality medical care to all patients, regardless of background.
The union said that expanded ICE and federal agent activity has made that mission increasingly difficult, both when responding to 911 calls and when providing care on scene.
“Our members are here to help all members of the community,” the statement said.
