The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has publicly condemned Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and fellow state officials following a decision to grant a pardon to an illegal immigrant previously convicted of child sexual assault.
Background of the Case
On June 10, 2026, the Minnesota Clemency Review Commission voted to grant a pardon to Tou Lue Vang, a citizen of Laos. Court documents show that Vang was convicted in 2006 of first-degree criminal sexual conduct for repeatedly assaulting an unborn child between 2002 and 2004.
During police interviews at the time, Vang attempted to offer the victim $10 for her silence and told investigators “it is a cultural thing…to marry and have sex with girls as young as 12,” while arguing the victim should also be arrested.
Federal Response
Federal authorities stated that Vang’s deportation was imminent prior to the commission’s vote, but the newly issued pardon could now legally block his removal from the country.
“Governor Tim Walz’s decision to pardon an illegal immigrant convicted child rapist so he can remain in our country is disgusting,” Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis said in the federal agency’s statement.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
