Minneapolis, Minnesota: The FBI says it has opened an investigation into Signal group chats used by Minnesota residents to share information about Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity, but officials have not cited evidence of criminal conduct or identified specific laws allegedly violated.
FBI Director Kash Patel said the probe began after right-wing media figures claimed the chats were obstructing law enforcement or putting agents at risk. Those claims have not been independently verified, and Patel acknowledged the investigation was launched immediately following a social media post rather than evidence developed by law enforcement.
Patel did not specify which federal statutes may apply, and an FBI spokesperson said the bureau had no further details to provide. Civil liberties advocates warned that sharing lawfully obtained information about law enforcement activity, including locations or vehicle descriptions, is generally protected under the First Amendment.
Legal experts emphasized that criminal liability would require evidence of threats, conspiracy, or steps toward imminent unlawful action. As of now, federal officials have not produced evidence showing the Signal groups coordinated violence, interfered with arrests, or agreed to commit a crime.
Sources:
• NBC News – MBFC Rating
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