The DOJ has launched a criminal investigation into Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. This action comes in the wake of violent protests against the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that erupted after a fatal shooting involving an ICE agent. Authorities are examining whether the state and city leaders hindered federal law enforcement during these incidents.
The investigation, initially reported by CBS News, scrutinizes the public statements and measures taken by Gov. Walz and Mayor Frey against ICE operations in Minneapolis. Attorney General Pam Bondi highlighted the gravity of the situation with a stark message on social media, reminding Minnesotans that "No one is above the law."
Tensions rose following an incident where ICE agent Jonathan Ross fatally shot 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good during an enforcement operation. Officials report Good had tried to ram her vehicle into agents. In the aftermath, Gov. Walz and Mayor Frey publicly condemned ICE, attributing the upheaval to federal agents and urging their withdrawal from Minneapolis.
These comments, according to U.S. officials, triggered the Justice Department's investigation. In response, Gov. Walz denied any misconduct, asserting that the Trump administration is using the justice system to target dissenting Democrats. He also linked the probe to a pattern of retribution against those who challenge President Trump's immigration policies.
Mayor Frey stood firm, stating he would not be intimidated and accusing the administration of putting Minneapolis residents in danger. He attributed the increased tension to the influx of federal agents.
President Trump responded on Truth Social, criticizing Minnesota's leadership for failing to maintain control and hinting at potential federal action to resolve the situation "quickly and effectively."
The unrest escalated when a second ICE-related shooting occurred, involving an attempt to detain a Venezuelan illegal migrant. The agent, reportedly ambushed and attacked, shot in self-defense.
Protests intensified at the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building, with clashes between demonstrators and federal agents. Homeland Security officials point to the rhetoric of Gov. Walz and Mayor Frey as a catalyst for the resistance against ICE, alleging it endangers agents and promotes organized opposition to law enforcement.
Over the past five days, at least 60 individuals have been detained for alleged assaults or obstruction of federal agents, with officer assaults nationwide purportedly increasing by over 1,000 percent.
Gov. Walz called for peace, while Mayor Frey continued to advocate for ICE's departure from Minneapolis. The specific charges being considered by the DOJ remain undisclosed, though legal experts propose they could involve obstruction, incitement, or interference with federal assignments.
