In a move escalating tensions, the United States government is deploying hundreds of additional federal agents to Minneapolis. This decision comes amidst ongoing protests triggered by the fatal shooting of a female protester by an immigration officer.
Secretary Noem Defends Officer, Labels Protest 'Domestic Terrorism'
US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem made the announcement on Sunday, local time. She firmly stood by the officer responsible for the death of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good. The incident occurred last Wednesday in the Midwest city.
In a series of television interviews, Noem dismissed calls from the city's Democratic leadership to withdraw federal personnel. She claimed that Good's actions constituted "domestic terrorism" and insisted the agent fired in self-defense. According to her, the agent shot Good inside her vehicle because he felt threatened.
Democratic Leaders Challenge Official Account, Point to Video Evidence
Key Democratic figures have strongly contested Secretary Noem's version of events. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey have argued that widely circulated video from the scene tells a different story.
They state the footage appears to show Good's vehicle turning away from the agent, not moving toward him. This, they argue, indicates she was not posing an immediate threat to the officer's safety at the moment she was shot.
When pressed by CNN on how she could make definitive statements while the investigation had just begun, Noem remained adamant. She asserted that she and the administration were correct in their assessment.
Massive Agent Deployment and Warning to Protesters
Secretary Noem outlined the plan for reinforcement, stating that hundreds more officers will arrive on Sunday and Monday. She told Fox News that this deployment is to allow immigration agents working in Minneapolis to operate safely.
Issuing a stern warning, Noem said on "Sunday Morning Futures" that protesters would be held accountable. "If they conduct violent activities against law enforcement, if they impede our operations, that's a crime," she stated. The death of Renee Good has ignited fresh nationwide protests against President Donald Trump's stringent immigration policies, setting the stage for further confrontation.
