(DDM) – The Hennepin County Attorney’s office in Minnesota has launched a high-profile investigation into federal immigration officers, including Border Patrol official Greg Bovino, following aggressive enforcement actions that have sparked nationwide controversy.
DDM gathered that the probe covers 17 incidents during the Trump administration’s “Operation Metro Surge,” which took place across Minneapolis-St. Paul in early 2026. Among the allegations are claims that Bovino threw a smoke canister at protesters on January 21 and that officers deployed chemical irritants during an arrest outside a high school on January 7, while students and staff were present.
Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty emphasized the seriousness of the investigation, stating at a news conference that her office is committed to pursuing accountability despite anticipated legal challenges. “Make no mistake, we are not afraid of the legal fight, and we are committed to doing this correctly,” she said. She described Operation Metro Surge as having caused “immeasurable harm” to the community.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees federal immigration enforcement, responded to the investigation by asserting that such actions fall under federal authority and that states cannot prosecute federal officers. DHS officials argued that agents acting in the course of their duties are immune from state liability and warned that local officials should consider the risks posed to federal law enforcement personnel.
Bovino, a prominent figure in the Trump administration’s immigration operations, had previously directed aggressive crackdowns in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Chicago, and Los Angeles. In Chicago, his tactics included deploying chemical irritants in residential areas, prompting a court order for him to wear a body camera and appear in court daily—a ruling later overturned before his first appearance. In Minnesota, federal officers detained protesters, confiscated recording devices, and used forceful measures, actions that drew public outrage.
The investigation gained urgency following the deaths of 37-year-old mother Renee Good and 37-year-old nurse Alex Pretti, both fatally shot by federal officers in January. These incidents led to nationwide demonstrations and intensified criticism of DHS use-of-force policies. Moriarty’s office has established an online portal for citizens to submit photos, videos, and eyewitness accounts related to Operation Metro Surge.
Legal experts, including Rachel Moran of the University of St. Thomas School of Law, have noted that cases may involve potential charges for assault, property damage, or other violations if evidence shows officers acted outside the scope of their authority. Moriarty’s office will focus specifically on incidents in Hennepin County but indicated readiness to pursue evidence from the federal government through legal channels.
The Department of Justice has opened a civil rights inquiry into Pretti’s death but declined one for Good’s case, while the FBI has restricted state access to evidence. Moriarty stressed the investigation’s dedication to transparency and accountability, signaling that regardless of the outcome, the public will gain clearer insight into the federal crackdown.
Experts like Mark Osler, former director of Moriarty’s criminal division, said the investigation’s findings will provide truth and clarity beyond what initial video footage has shown, potentially reshaping public understanding of federal enforcement actions in Minnesota.
