Minneapolis Immigration Officers to Begin Wearing Body Cameras, Noem Announces
Federal immigration officers in Minneapolis will begin wearing body cameras as part of a new initiative announced by Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem. This decision comes amid heightened scrutiny following two recent fatal shootings involving federal agents in the area.
Body Cameras Implemented for Immigration Officers
Noem stated that the deployment of body cameras is effective immediately for all agents in the field. This move was announced on Monday via a post on X, where she communicated her discussions with leaders of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). She emphasized that the policy aims to eventually extend nationwide as funding allows.
Federal Support and Upcoming Changes
- President Trump supported the initiative, citing the benefits of body cameras for law enforcement accountability.
- The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) currently has around 3,000 agents in the Minneapolis area.
- This deployment is part of an ongoing crackdown on illegal immigration and fraud allegations within Minnesota.
The actions of federal agents have drawn bipartisan criticism, particularly following the shootings of Alex Pretti and Renee Good in separate incidents involving CBP and ICE agents, respectively. Meanwhile, White House border czar Tom Homan noted preparations for a potential reduction of federal forces in Minnesota, although the timeline for this change remains uncertain.
Previous Requirements and Legislative Efforts
Body cameras have been used by federal agents in specific cases. Recent reports indicated that the DHS has footage from the agents present during Pretti’s death, which has been referenced in earlier congressional documents.
Moreover, a federal judge had mandated that immigration agents wear body cameras during all law enforcement activities amid previous immigration enforcement measures. This directive was underscored with strong language, affirming its necessity.
- Senate Democrats are advocating for legislation requiring all immigration agents to wear body cameras.
- Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer characterized this requirement as a “masks off, body cameras on” initiative.
Earlier negotiations included a provision for $20 million for ICE and CBP to secure body cameras. However, following the recent shooting, Democratic senators have refused to support any DHS funding without further reforms.
Future Funding Dynamics
The Senate recently voted to extend DHS funding for an additional two weeks, providing lawmakers with time to finalize a long-term budget agreement. A vote from the House on this temporary measure is anticipated soon.
In 2022, former President Joe Biden enacted an executive order aimed at mandating body cameras for federal agents in all suitable situations. However, this order was rescinded by Trump shortly after he took office last year.
