Hotel Obstructs Murder Investigation

FBI website shown through magnifying glass.

A Minnesota hotel’s brazen refusal to house federal immigration agents has backfired spectacularly, resulting in swift termination from government programs and complete severance from the Hilton brand after defying law enforcement operations targeting murderers and rapists.

Story Highlights

Hampton Inn Lakeville canceled ICE and DHS reservations, stating they refuse to house immigration agents
Hotel owner’s public apology was exposed as fraudulent by undercover video showing continued refusal
Hilton immediately severed all ties and removed the property from their systems
Federal government terminated hotel from all lodging programs, costing significant revenue

Hotel Blocks Federal Agents During Critical Operations

The Hampton Inn Lakeville in Minnesota deliberately canceled reservations for ICE and DHS agents on January 2, 2026, sending emails stating “we are not allowing any ICE or immigration agents to stay at our property.” This obstruction occurred during heightened immigration enforcement operations in Minnesota’s Twin Cities, where federal agents arrested over 1,000 dangerous criminals including murderers, rapists, and pedophiles. The hotel’s actions directly undermined critical law enforcement missions designed to protect American communities from violent offenders.

Fraudulent Apology Exposed by Undercover Investigation

After DHS publicly exposed the discriminatory emails on social media, hotel owner Everpeak Hospitality issued a seemingly contrite apology on Monday, claiming they were “committed to welcoming all guests” and had resolved the issue. However, freelance journalist Nick Sortor’s undercover video on Tuesday morning revealed this apology was completely fraudulent. Front desk staff confirmed they were still refusing ICE and DHS bookings, proving the hotel’s defiance continued despite public pressure and corporate intervention.

Swift Corporate and Federal Retaliation

Hilton CEO Chris Nassetta personally intervened, immediately removing the Hampton Inn Lakeville from all Hilton systems and terminating the franchise relationship. The hotel disappeared from Hilton’s website and lost all brand affiliation within hours of the video’s release. Simultaneously, GSA Administrator Edward C. Forst terminated the property from the FedRooms program, which provides federal lodging at per diem rates for approximately 4 million government workers. This dual action cost the hotel an estimated 130 federal booking nights annually plus incalculable brand value.

Broader Implications for Immigration Enforcement

This incident demonstrates how radical anti-enforcement sentiment has infiltrated private businesses, with staff willing to side with criminals over federal law enforcement. The hotel’s actions represent a dangerous precedent where private entities attempt to obstruct lawful immigration operations targeting the most violent offenders in our communities. However, the swift corporate and federal response sends a clear message that discrimination against federal agents will not be tolerated, establishing accountability for businesses that choose ideology over public safety.

Bill Ackman, a prominent Hilton shareholder, praised CEO Nassetta’s decisive response, noting the executive’s strong relationship with President Trump and commitment to supporting federal law enforcement. The incident serves as a warning to other hospitality providers that obstructing immigration enforcement carries severe financial consequences, while reinforcing the Trump administration’s commitment to removing barriers that protect dangerous criminals from deportation.