Minnesota Demands Court Order To Uncover Evidence In ICE Shootings

The US state of Minnesota has filed a lawsuit against the federal government, accusing it of blocking access to critical evidence in a series of shootings involving immigration officers that triggered nationwide outrage.

The case, filed on Tuesday, targets the Departments of Justice and Homeland Security over their alleged refusal to share key information with state investigators. According to the complaint, federal authorities took control of evidence linked to the incidents and denied even basic access to Minnesota officials, despite earlier assurances of cooperation.

The shootings, which occurred in January, left two US citizens—Renee Good and Alex Pretti—dead in separate encounters with federal immigration agents. A third incident involved Venezuelan national Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis, who was shot in the leg by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer on January 14.

The incidents sparked widespread protests and intensified scrutiny of federal law enforcement tactics during a sweeping immigration crackdown known as “Operation Metro Surge,” launched under President Donald Trump’s administration. Thousands of ICE and Border Patrol agents were deployed to Minnesota as part of the operation.

In its filing, Minnesota argued that it has both the authority and responsibility to investigate violent crimes within its borders, including homicides and assaults. State officials said the federal government’s lack of cooperation undermines accountability and prevents proper prosecution where necessary.

The lawsuit also comes amid growing controversy over the conduct of federal officers. In one of the cases, investigators found inconsistencies in officers’ accounts, with at least one officer reportedly under investigation for possible false statements.

Federal agencies have maintained that internal reviews are ongoing and have defended their handling of the incidents. However, Minnesota officials insist that independent access to evidence is essential to ensure transparency and justice.

The outcome of the case could have significant implications for the balance of power between state and federal authorities, particularly in cases involving federal law enforcement operations within US states.