The federal government is scaling back its immigration enforcement presence in Minneapolis following widespread criticism over the fatal shooting of 37-year-old ICU nurse Alex Pretti by a U.S. Customs and Border Protection agent. The controversy, which has reignited intense debate over federal policing tactics and public safety, has prompted leadership changes and bipartisan calls for accountability.
Federal Commander Gregory Bovino to Leave Minneapolis
U.S. Border Patrol commander Gregory Bovino, the face of the aggressive immigration push in Minnesota, is expected to depart the Minneapolis area as federal and local leaders seek to defuse mounting tensions. Sources say Bovino and some federal agents will begin withdrawing operations amid growing anger over Pretti’s death, the second fatal shooting of a U.S. citizen by federal immigration agents in the city this month.
Officials also indicate Bovino has been stripped of his high-profile “commander at large” title, though federal spokespeople deny he has been fully removed from his overall role.
Outrage Over Pretti’s Death Fuels Broader Debate
Pretti, an ICU nurse and Minneapolis resident, was killed on January 24 during a federal enforcement action linked to protests over immigration policy. Local authorities and witness accounts have challenged early federal statements about the incident, with video evidence and sworn statements suggesting Pretti did not present a threat when agents shot him.
The shooting has amplified calls for a re-evaluation of federal tactics under “Operation Metro Surge,” which saw a large deployment of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel to Minnesota. This deployment has already been linked to multiple controversial encounters, including the earlier killing of Renée Good.
Political Impact: Governors, Lawmakers Demand Action
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey have openly criticized federal enforcement techniques, with both leaders urging a significant reduction of the federal footprint in the state. President Donald Trump, after discussions with Walz, has agreed to review the federal role in Minneapolis and allow independent state investigations into the shootings.
Meanwhile, bipartisan pressure is mounting on federal officials, with some lawmakers demanding investigations, policy reforms, and even leadership changes within the Department of Homeland Security.
