Judge Criticizes Bondi for Sharing Protester Photos on Social Media

In a Minneapolis federal court, a significant case unfolded involving 16 protesters charged with assaulting immigration agents. Judge Dulce J. Foster expressed her concern regarding the actions of Attorney General Pam Bondi, who shared photographs of some defendants on social media.

Criticism of Social Media Post

Judge Foster was “deeply disturbed” by Bondi’s decision to publish images of individuals presumed innocent. She emphasized that this behavior is not condoned by the court.

On social media, Bondi called several individuals “rioters” and indicated that she was present in Minneapolis on Monday. Just before the court hearing, she shared photographs of 11 defendants, asserting that they were “resisting and impeding” federal law enforcement. Bondi conveyed that further arrests were anticipated, reinforcing that “nothing will stop President Trump and this Department of Justice from enforcing the law.”

Court Proceedings

During Wednesday’s hearing, prosecutors requested that Judge Foster impose restrictions preventing the defendants from contacting the federal agents involved. However, the judge denied this request due to the prosecutors not disclosing the identities of the agents.

• Lisa Lopez, a defense attorney, remarked that Bondi’s actions were “very dangerous.”
• Lopez noted that sharing the photographs could put her clients at risk, stating they do not receive the same protection as masked agents.

Emotional Support in Court

Approximately 50 spectators, including family and friends of the defendants, attended the proceedings. As defendants approached the bench, many sat together, providing emotional support.

One woman experienced a seizure prior to the hearing and was taken to the hospital. Additionally, Mohammad Ahmed, father of defendant Nasra Ahmed, shared that his daughter had suffered a concussion during her arrest and required medical attention. His emotional statement highlighted the fear and intimidation faced by his family, saying, “I’m grateful she’s still alive.”

This case not only raises serious legal implications but also evokes powerful emotional responses from those involved, as they navigate the complexities of their situation.