Federal immigration agents deployed in Minneapolis will soon receive body cameras, as announced by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The measure comes in the wake of public backlash following the deaths of two US citizens last month during intensified immigration enforcement efforts in the region.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem stated on social media that body cameras will be rolled out to every officer in the field in Minneapolis immediately. The decision is a response to demands for increased transparency and accountability from federal law enforcement.
Recent reports ruled the January 24 death of citizen Alex Pretti as a homicide, caused by multiple gunshots allegedly fired by law enforcement officers. Such fatalities have raised alarms about the conduct of federal agents amid a crackdown on immigration.
Notably, US Customs and Border Protection affirmed that the agents linked to Pretti’s death were wearing body cameras and have been placed on administrative leave while investigations occur. A civil rights inquiry by the Department of Justice has also been opened concerning the incident.
Secretary Noem indicated plans to expand the body camera program across the nation once additional funding becomes available. The timing of this announcement is significant given the ongoing partial government shutdown, with immigration reforms, including body cameras, at the heart of negotiations.
Moreover, body cameras have been generally supported by law enforcement, as President Donald Trump remarked that they tend to enhance accountability, reducing the chances for deception about incidents. Amid rising tensions due to ongoing federal operations, local leaders have suggested reassessing the federal agents' presence in Minneapolis.
