The US justice department is investigating two prominent Minnesota officials over alleged attempts to impede federal immigration agents, in an escalation of the Trump administration's clash with Democrats.
Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey are facing an inquiry over statements they have made about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), reports the BBC's US partner CBS. It comes as fresh details emerged in the death of a Minneapolis woman shot last week by an ICE agent in the city, sparking nationwide protests.
Renee Good, 37, was found with at least three gunshot wounds and possibly a fourth to the head, according to official reports viewed by CBS.
Governor Walz responded on Friday to news of the inquiry against him by posting on X: Weaponizing the justice system against your opponents is an authoritarian tactic. The only person not being investigated for the shooting of Renee Good is the federal agent who shot her.
The inquiry focuses on a federal statute, 18 U.S.C. § 372, which criminalizes conspiracy to prevent federal officers from carrying out their official duties through intimidation or threats. Protests have continued in Minneapolis as calls for calm were made in light of the public holiday weekend.
After the incident, video footage showed ICE agents approaching Good's vehicle, which was blocking traffic. An officer instructed her to exit the car, and as she attempted to drive away, an agent opened fire.
President Trump condemned local officials and the demonstrations, claiming they lost control and accusing protesters of being highly paid professionals. Meanwhile, local lawmakers have condemned ICE's measures, calling for reform and accountability for federal agents within the state.
Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey are facing an inquiry over statements they have made about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), reports the BBC's US partner CBS. It comes as fresh details emerged in the death of a Minneapolis woman shot last week by an ICE agent in the city, sparking nationwide protests.
Renee Good, 37, was found with at least three gunshot wounds and possibly a fourth to the head, according to official reports viewed by CBS.
Governor Walz responded on Friday to news of the inquiry against him by posting on X: Weaponizing the justice system against your opponents is an authoritarian tactic. The only person not being investigated for the shooting of Renee Good is the federal agent who shot her.
The inquiry focuses on a federal statute, 18 U.S.C. § 372, which criminalizes conspiracy to prevent federal officers from carrying out their official duties through intimidation or threats. Protests have continued in Minneapolis as calls for calm were made in light of the public holiday weekend.
After the incident, video footage showed ICE agents approaching Good's vehicle, which was blocking traffic. An officer instructed her to exit the car, and as she attempted to drive away, an agent opened fire.
President Trump condemned local officials and the demonstrations, claiming they lost control and accusing protesters of being highly paid professionals. Meanwhile, local lawmakers have condemned ICE's measures, calling for reform and accountability for federal agents within the state.
