Former Minnesota sheriff responds to ICE shooting
Rich Stanek, the former sheriff of Hennepin County, spoke on America Report regarding the recent shooting of a woman during an anti-ICE demonstration. He also addressed comments made by Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey about the incident.
On Thursday, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCA) stated that it has “reluctantly withdrawn” from investigating the shooting death of a woman by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.
The BCA indicated that it was informed by the FBI that it would no longer have access to essential materials for conducting a complete and independent investigation.
Drew Evans, superintendent of the BCA, mentioned that after discussions with both the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office and the FBI, a decision was reached for a joint investigation to proceed with the FBI leading the inquiry into the death of Renee Nicole Good, who was shot during an ICE operation in south Minneapolis.
“Later that day, the FBI informed the BCA that the U.S. Attorney’s Office had shifted its approach,” Evans explained. “The FBI would now take over the investigation, and the BCA would be denied access to crucial evidence and materials needed for a thorough examination.”
Evans added, “We cannot fulfill the investigative standards required by Minnesota law for the public if we don’t have access to the evidence and information gathered. Thus, we have withdrawn from the investigation. The goal of the BCA is ensuring accountability and public trust, which isn’t achievable without full cooperation.”
The FBI has yet to comment. Meanwhile, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem raised concerns during a press conference in New York City. She questioned why investigations are not being pursued into those who incite violence against law enforcement. “The situation is becoming unstable,” Noem said, criticizing inaction regarding potential fraud in Minnesota. “It’s a mess over there.”
Protests ensue following ICE shooting
Evans expressed hopes that the FBI would conduct a thorough investigation and that all findings would be shared with relevant prosecutorial bodies at both state and federal levels.
He indicated, “The BCA remains committed to collaborating to foster public confidence in the use of deadly force. If the U.S. Attorney’s Office and FBI decide to resume joint efforts, BCA would be prepared to reintegrate.”
The incident unfolded during an ICE enforcement operation in south Minneapolis, during which agents were attempting to arrest Good after an attempt to use his vehicle against officers, leading to the agents’ defensive actions.
Good was declared deceased following the shooting. Details regarding the agents involved have not been disclosed, and the incident continues to be under investigation.
