ICE Action Left Children Without Caregiver, Dakota County Commissioner Says

DAKOTA COUNTY, MN — Dakota County Commissioner Joe Atkins said county social services intervened after four children were reportedly left without a caregiver following a federal immigration enforcement action.

In a social media post shared Monday, Atkins said he received a call about the children after their parents were taken away by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

"Because ICE does not communicate with local law enforcement or social services, someone who cared about these kids reached out to me," Atkins wrote.

Atkins said he immediately contacted Dakota County Social Services to ensure the children remained safe.

Under Minnesota law, counties are responsible for protecting children who are left without a caregiver, Atkins said.

He urged residents to contact the county if they know of a child who has been left alone or needs immediate help. Dakota County’s intake line is (952) 891-7459.

"You can also contact me anytime," Atkins added, providing his office phone number and county email address.

"No child in our community should ever be left without a safety net," Atkins wrote. "Please consider sharing this so others know where to turn if they need help."