Defense attorney Kevin Riach filed a motion alleging Homeland Security Investigations spied on Minnesotans protesting ICE, creating dossiers on political opponents. The motion cites discovery showing surveillance of public meetings at churches, parks, libraries, and union halls, with agents posing as protesters. Riach claims DHS launched Operation Puppet Master four days after ICE agent Alex Pretti’s death, targeting individuals labeled as "violent opportunists" under the guise of countering protests.

The program allegedly gathered data from law enforcement databases and internet searches, producing agency-wide dossiers. DHS also obtained financial records from unions like the SEIU and Communications Workers of America, then informed grand jurors these groups supported the alleged conspiracy. Riach argues the surveillance lacked legal justification and targeted First Amendment-protected speech.

The motion demands records of Operation Whipple Shield, communications between federal officials and prosecutors, and all surveillance reports. Fifteen individuals, including Isaac Sant, face charges of conspiracy to impede federal officers for opposing immigration enforcement. U.S. Attorney Daniel Rosen stated they were "charged not for what they said but what they did," while all plead not guilty.