Minnesota Shooting Faces No Civil Rights Violation Investigation, Sources Confirm
In a significant development regarding the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, the U.S. Justice Department has opted not to initiate a civil rights investigation. Sources confirm that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will lead the inquiry instead.
Investigation Details
Two units within DHS are taking charge of the investigation. The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) office will assess whether its officers adhered to agency policies during the incident. Concurrently, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) will evaluate whether Pretti violated any laws.
HSI typically focuses on serious crimes such as human trafficking and drug smuggling. Their involvement indicates a shift in strategy, deviating from the Justice Department’s usual practice of independent reviews for incidents involving federal law enforcement fatalities.
Background of the Incident
The decision against a DOJ investigation follows a similar choice made after the January 7 shooting of Renee Good by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer. Reports suggest an FBI request for assistance in gathering evidence from Border Patrol officials after Pretti’s shooting. However, all evidence has been handed over to DHS, excluding firearms and casings.
Officials from the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) mentioned they are investigating the incident. However, they have not received access to evidence collected by federal agencies.
Concerns Over Evidence Handling
The handling of evidence in Pretti’s case has raised alarms among former FBI and DOJ investigators. They argue the protocols followed might compromise the integrity of the investigation. Sources suggest that the deceased’s firearm was inadequately documented, which could nullify its use in any subsequent legal action.
Rob D’Amico, a former FBI agent, pointed out that DHS taking the lead raises concerns about transparency. He noted the perception of a cover-up could emerge if charges are not filed against the involved officers.
Public Response and Political Impact
Stacey Young, the executive director of Justice Connection, underscored the public’s distrust in government narratives regarding the shooting. She noted that misinformation can lead to significant public outcry, especially when peaceful protests result in violence against individuals exercising their First Amendment rights.
The perception of excessive force by law enforcement is further fueled by various videos depicting aggressive actions during the protests. Chris O’Leary, another former FBI agent, criticized the assignment of the case to HSI, stating that the FBI is better suited to carry out an unbiased investigation.
Call to Action
Young emphasized the urgent need for the DOJ to fulfill its responsibilities. She believes that if the federal government fails to act, local law enforcement should intensify their efforts for proper investigations of such incidents.
Daniel Bremmer, with extensive FBI experience, reiterated that the bureau possesses the necessary expertise to handle inquiries involving federal officers and potential civil rights violations.
As the investigation progresses, the lack of an independent DOJ probe could have lasting implications for public trust and the rule of law in Minneapolis and beyond.
