City Prosecutors Collaborate to Charge Federal Agents
Nine progressive prosecutors from various cities across the United States have formed a coalition aimed at holding federal law enforcement officers accountable for violations of state laws. This initiative, titled the Project for the Fight Against Federal Overreach (F.A.F.O.), was announced by Philadelphia prosecutor Larry Krasner. Other notable members include Mary Moriarty, the elected prosecutor in Minneapolis.
Formation of F.A.F.O. Coalition
The coalition’s creation was driven by mounting concerns surrounding federal agents’ tactics, such as unlawful detentions and warrantless entries. Bystander videos have called into question federal agents’ accounts, particularly in instances of alleged excessive force.
Recent Events in Minneapolis
Minneapolis has witnessed intense scrutiny over federal actions following the deaths of two U.S. citizens during confrontations with Department of Homeland Security officers. The first casualty, Renee Good, a mother of three, was killed in her vehicle on January 7. Reports regarding her death indicated that she was attempting to evade federal agents.
State investigations into Good’s death faced significant obstruction, as federal officials initially refused cooperation. Another victim, Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old Veterans Affairs nurse, faced a similar fate, prompting further demands for accountability from local authorities.
Implications of Federal Actions
The lack of coordination between federal and state investigations reflects broader tensions regarding federal law enforcement practices. President Trump promised an “honorable and honest investigation” into Pretti’s death amidst escalating public criticism.
Law enforcement leaders across the country are increasingly vocal about their willingness to prosecute federal agents who violate legal statutes. Brooke Jenkins, the district attorney in San Francisco, took a stand against federal overreach after threats from the Trump administration to dispatch National Guard troops to the city.
Local Prosecutors Respond
In Ramsey County, which includes St. Paul, prosecutor John Choi stated his office is currently investigating potential crimes committed by federal agents. This follows a pattern where local authorities have sought to challenge the narrative put forth by the federal government.
Challenges to Accountability
- Federal agents typically enjoy additional protections due to the Constitution’s supremacy clause.
- The FBI and DOJ usually oversee investigations into the use of deadly force by federal agents.
- Local prosecutors hold the authority to pursue state-level charges, including murder.
Mary Moriarty has taken proactive steps by creating a web portal to collect public evidence, like cellphone videos, related to federal agent activities. This innovative approach could provide crucial information as her office considers whether to file charges in the recent killings.
Support Among Elected Officials
As F.A.F.O. continues to grow, it aims to provide a network of mutual support for prosecutors confronting challenges posed by federal authorities. Krasner emphasized the coalition’s role in resisting what he perceives as a dangerous trend toward authoritarianism in the United States.
The coalition’s membership extends beyond Pennsylvania and Minnesota to include prosecutors from Austin, Dallas, several cities in Virginia, and Pima County, Arizona.
