Minneapolis Prosecutors Launch Investigation Into Federal Immigration Agents

A Minnesota prosecutor's office is investigating potential criminal behavior by federal immigration agents, including a top Border Patrol official, during recent enforcement operations. The investigation follows two fatal shootings of U.S. citizens by federal agents that sparked national controversy.

Minneapolis-area prosecutors announced Monday they are examining possible criminal conduct by federal immigration enforcement officers during a controversial operation that resulted in the deaths of two American citizens.

Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty revealed her office has launched an investigation into what she termed “potentially unlawful behavior” by federal agents during Operation Metro Surge, an immigration crackdown that faced strong community opposition earlier this year.

The prosecutor’s office has established an online portal where residents can submit video footage and other evidence of incidents involving Gregory Bovino, a Border Patrol official who previously referred to himself as “commander at large,” along with other federal agents suspected of criminal activity.

“We will investigate and pursue charging where appropriate, and we’ll seek collaboration with local law enforcement wherever and whenever needed,” Moriarty stated during a news conference. “Make no mistake, we are not afraid of any legal fight.”

While recognizing the challenges in prosecuting federal agents who have substantial legal protections, Moriarty emphasized: “There is no absolute immunity for federal agents.”

The Department of Homeland Security, which supervises both Border Patrol and ICE operations, has not yet responded to requests for comment. Moriarty noted that federal authorities have provided no information to her office regarding the investigation.

The county attorney had previously created similar evidence-gathering portals concerning the fatal shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by federal agents. Those death investigations remain active, according to Moriarty.

The immigration enforcement campaign started in early December. Following the controversial shootings, President Donald Trump’s Border czar Tom Homan assumed control of the operation in late January, replacing Bovino, who has faced significant criticism from Democratic officials and civil rights advocates for his management of enforcement actions in Minnesota and other states.

According to a January report in The Atlantic, citing a Homeland Security official and two knowledgeable sources, Bovino was reassigned from his traveling enforcement role back to his previous position as Border Patrol sector chief in El Centro, California. Neither the White House nor the Department of Homeland Security has confirmed Bovino’s current assignment status.

After taking over, Homan met with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, establishing a more cooperative approach. In February, Homan announced the departure of thousands of agents from the area, while stating that immigration enforcement activities would continue.