GoKawiilHSI subpoenaed REI for buyer records of a specific beanie in Minneapolis ICE probe
Court filings reveal Homeland Security Investigations agents subpoenaed REI in March, seeking purchase records for anyone in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area who bought a particular dark green beanie since 2024. The request is one of 92 subpoenas issued as part of a federal lawsuit against 39 people, including protesters and journalists, connected to a demonstration at an ICE-linked church. Other subpoenas reportedly sought data from social media firms, airlines, telecom companies, and a car rental agency, with one airline allegedly asked to flag a defendant's future travel.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The use of customs-related 1509 summons—typically meant for import/export investigations—to identify retail customers raises concerns about expanding surveillance tactics against protesters and journalists. It suggests federal agencies may be using broad data requests to unmask individuals connected to demonstrations, a practice civil liberties advocates have flagged as part of a wider pattern under the current administration.
- HSI subpoenaed REI for records of all beanie buyers in a specific region since 2024.
- The request is part of a 92-subpoena investigation tied to a lawsuit against 39 ICE protest attendees.
- Subpoenas also targeted airlines, social media firms, and telecom providers, raising surveillance concerns.
Carhartt Acrylic Watch Hat Beanie — Beanies are back in the news, and this classic Carhartt knit cuffed cap is the everyday winter staple that shows up on heads everywhere from Minneapolis to Maine. It's a simple, warm, one-size cuffed knit hat that comes in a wide range of colors, including greens if you want to match the moment.
See Carhartt Acrylic Watch Hat Beanie on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: wired.com — Maddy Varner, 2026-09-04
Published there as: “ICE Wants to Know Everyone Who Bought a Certain Green Beanie From REI in the Last 2 Years”
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