India, Feb. 9 -- Jim Stolley, the longtime chief counsel for US Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Minnesota, has retired after 31 years with the agency, as legal challenges tied to ICE operations in the state continue to intensify.

Stolley's exit comes amid growing strain on Minnesota's immigration and federal courts, where judges are handling a surge of cases connected to stepped-up enforcement activity, according to The New York Times.

Stolley stepped down earlier this week but has not offered any public explanation regarding his decision. He did not respond to media requests for comment.

The Department of Homeland Security confirmed the move on Saturday local time. DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said Stolley retired after m...