WASHINGTON (AP) — In a gripping Senate hearing addressing federal immigration policy, Senator Rand Paul confronted immigration agency leaders about the fatal shooting of ICU nurse Alex Pretti, urging accountability and transparency following a series of contentious events.
Paul presented a video that showcased Pretti's shooting death in a slow-motion analysis, questioning the appropriateness of force deployed by federal officers during the incident. He emphasized that the actions taken against Pretti, who was shot amidst a demonstration, were excessive and undermined public trust in immigration enforcement.
“He is retreating at every moment,” noted Paul, criticizing the use of pepper spray and questioning the rationale behind escalating to lethal force. Paul’s remarks came after recent fatalities, including Pretti's, sparked widespread outrage and calls for reform within immigration authorities.
The panel included Todd Lyons, acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and Rodney Scott, head of Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Both officials faced sharp questioning about their agencies' conduct and their operational protocols concerning the use of force.
Lyons countered criticisms, asserting that ICE is held accountable with several investigations initiated into excessive force claims. He noted that 37 investigations had been opened within the past year.
Democrats joined Paul in criticizing the treatment of protesters, asserting a growing concern over the use of violence by federal officers. Meanwhile, other Republican committee members focused their inquiries on threats faced by officers, steering the conversation toward law enforcement risks rather than scrutinizing agency actions.
As public distrust mounts, officials like Paul are demanding a reassessment of engagement rules and a pledge for reform to restore faith in federal immigration practices.
