United States deports pardoned Minnesota sex offender
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The U.S. Department of Homeland Security confirmed on July 10, 2026, that Immigration and Customs Enforcement has deported Tou Lue Vang, a Lao national convicted in Minnesota of first-degree criminal sexual conduct involving a 10-year-old girl. Vang, who entered the United States in 1994 and became a lawful permanent resident, was convicted in 2006 for repeated assaults that occurred between 2002 and 2004. Despite receiving a unanimous pardon from Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and the state Board of Pardons, federal officials ended his legal status. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Vang has been removed to Laos and barred from returning.
More context
Timeline
- 1994 Vang enters United States, gains residency
- 2002–2004 Girl repeatedly assaulted in Minnesota
- 2006 Vang convicted of first-degree criminal conduct
- Recent weeks Minnesota board unanimously grants pardon
- Recent weeks Governor Walz approves Vang pardon
- After pardon Federal government terminates legal status
- July 10, 2026 DHS confirms Vang deportation
- July 10, 2026 Rubio announces permanent removal publicly
Why it matters
This case highlights the power of federal law over state pardons. Even if a state pardons a crime, federal immigration law can still act. If you know someone with a criminal record and immigration issues, they should consult a lawyer.
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