Tom Homan, the former border czar appointed by US President Donald Trump, declared on Thursday his commitment to reinstating law and order in Minneapolis, acknowledging that the administration has identified areas needing enhancement in immigration operations. This announcement follows intense turmoil in the city after two protesters, Renee Good and Alex Pretti, were killed by federal agents earlier this month, incidents that have ignited widespread demonstrations and scrutiny.
Homan's Pledge for Accountability and Reform
In his first public remarks since being dispatched to Minnesota's largest city by Trump, Homan emphasized at a news conference that community safety remains the paramount concern. "I've been on the ground since Monday to regain law and order in the city beloved by many, and to work together to move threats from the community," he stated, as reported by AFP. He assured that any federal agents violating conduct rules would be "dealt with" promptly, underscoring the administration's dedication to professionalism.
Collaborative Efforts and Planned Reductions
Homan revealed productive discussions with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, and other local officials, leading to plans to reduce the 3,000-strong contingent of agents deployed to the city. "We can do better," he asserted, highlighting "significant gains, significant coordination and cooperation" that he believes will soon result in "some massive changes occurring here in this city." This move aims to address public concerns and foster a more collaborative approach to immigration enforcement.
Background of the Minneapolis Unrest
The tensions in Minneapolis escalated sharply after the fatal shooting of Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother of three, by an ICE agent on January 7. Good was killed behind the wheel of her car, an event that triggered protests not only in the Twin Cities but also across the nation. The situation worsened with the subsequent shooting of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse, during a separate encounter between immigration agents and protesters documenting ICE activities.
Contradictions in Official Narratives
In both cases, Trump administration officials initially defended the federal agents involved, labeling Good and Pretti as "domestic terrorists" who allegedly posed threats to law enforcement. However, multiple video recordings that have gone viral online reportedly contradict these claims, suggesting neither individual endangered officers or others. For instance, while some officials alleged Pretti intended to "massacre" officers due to a handgun he carried, Reuters-reviewed footage showed he was holding only a phone when Border Patrol agents subdued him.
Notably, Pretti was legally permitted to carry a firearm, and video evidence captured an agent retrieving his gun from near his waist moments before another agent shot him in the back while he was restrained. These discrepancies have fueled public anger and calls for transparency, putting additional pressure on Homan's mission to implement reforms and restore trust in federal immigration operations in Minneapolis.
