MINNEAPOLIS — The state of Minnesota has filed a federal lawsuit against the Justice Department and Department of Homeland Security, accusing federal authorities of withholding key evidence in investigations into the fatal shootings of two civilians during a major immigration enforcement operation.
The lawsuit centers on the deaths of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old nurse, and Renée Good, both of whom were shot by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis in January 2026 during “Operation Metro Surge,” a large-scale crackdown led by federal authorities.
Allegations of Withheld Evidence
Minnesota officials say federal agencies have refused to turn over investigative materials, including evidence gathered at the scenes of the shootings.
- State investigators claim they were blocked from accessing crime scenes and evidence
- The FBI and other agencies allegedly declined to share key information needed for local investigations
The lawsuit argues that this lack of cooperation undermines the state’s ability to conduct independent reviews and hold federal officers accountable.
Breakdown Between State and Federal Authorities
The dispute highlights a rare and escalating conflict between state and federal law enforcement:
- Minnesota says the federal government failed to honor commitments to cooperate with state probes
- Officials, including Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty, have called the situation “unprecedented” obstruction
- A judge previously ordered DHS to preserve all evidence related to Pretti’s death after similar concerns were raised
Federal Response and Investigations
The Justice Department has opened a civil rights investigation into Pretti’s death, but notably declined to do the same for Good, a divergence that has drawn criticism.
Federal officials have defended their actions and the broader operation, which involved thousands of arrests as part of the administration’s immigration enforcement strategy.
Why It Matters
The case underscores growing tensions over:
- Federal vs. state authority in law enforcement investigations
- Transparency and accountability in officer-involved shootings
- The broader impact of aggressive immigration enforcement operations
Bottom Line
Minnesota’s lawsuit marks a significant escalation in its clash with the federal government, as state officials seek access to evidence they say is essential to investigating two high-profile shootings.
This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.
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It’s standard procedure.
Deny everything and make counter accusations.