The U.S. Attorney’s Office Limits State’s Role in ICE Shooting Investigation

Minneapolis—Minnesota’s Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) has announced its withdrawal from the investigation into the fatal shooting of Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother, by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer. This decision, influenced by the U.S. attorney’s office, raises serious concerns about the transparency and integrity of the investigative process.

Why It Matters

The restriction placed on Minnesota’s involvement not only complicates the investigation but also raises alarms among local officials regarding potential bias and the need for thorough oversight. The circumstances surrounding Good’s death have intensified public scrutiny and demand accountability from federal agencies.

Key Developments

• The U.S. attorney’s office has barred the BCA from participating in the investigation, which will now be solely led by the FBI.
• BCA Superintendent Drew Evans expressed concern about losing access to critical evidence and interviews necessary for a comprehensive investigation.
• Minnesota Governor Tim Walz criticized the decision, claiming it undermines the pursuit of justice.
• Protests erupted outside a Minneapolis immigration court, with heightened tensions prompting school cancellations in the area.
• Local officials, including the Hennepin County Attorney and the Minneapolis Mayor, expressed their dismay over the federal decision.

Full Report

BCA Withdraws from Investigation

The BCA had initially been set to collaborate with the FBI on the inquiry into the shooting of Renee Good. However, Evans noted that the U.S. attorney’s office later rescinded this arrangement, preventing the BCA from accessing crucial case materials and evidence.

Governor Walz voiced strong objections to the federal decision, labeling it as a barrier to achieving a fair investigation. “It feels very, very difficult that we will get a fair outcome,” he stated. He criticized officials including the president and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem for making misleading statements regarding the situation.

Local Reaction

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey conveyed deep concern over the decision to exclude state agencies from the investigation, emphasizing the need for checks on the administration’s actions. “Is it problematic? Absolutely. Am I concerned about this development? Of course, I am,” he remarked.

Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson expressed a desire for state agents to re-engage in the investigation, indicating that cooperation from the federal government would be essential for moving forward. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty is actively exploring options to ensure some level of state investigation can persist by collaborating with local partners.

Context & Previous Events

Renee Good was shot by an ICE officer, an incident that has attracted significant public attention and concern over policing practices. As protests unfolded outside a local immigration court, the state’s officials have been vocal about the need for accountability and transparency in the investigation process.