MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — Hennepin County prosecutors have opened 17 criminal investigations tied to the Department of Homeland Security’s “Operation Metro Surge,” including actions by former Customs and Border Patrol chief Gregory Bovino.
County Attorney Mary Moriarty announced Monday that Bovino’s use of chemical irritants during a January 21 protest at Mueller Park is among the cases under review. Video footage reportedly shows Bovino throwing a gas canister that released green smoke toward protesters and observers. Experts cited in the report said the substance may have contained potentially harmful compounds.
Moriarty also unveiled a Transparency and Accountability Project to examine the incidents. The initiative includes a public portal where residents can submit photos, videos and eyewitness accounts involving possible misconduct by federal agents. Officials said the effort responds to what they describe as limited cooperation from federal authorities.
The investigations come after several high-profile confrontations during immigration enforcement actions in Minneapolis. Moriarty indicated her office may pursue litigation if federal agencies continue to withhold evidence in cases involving civilian deaths and shootings linked to enforcement operations.
Federal officials have not publicly commented on the investigations.
Sources:
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
