Groups Accuse Trump Admin of Sabotaging Probe Into Alex Pretti Killing

Over 50 organizations demand accountability and independent investigations into federal agents' use of deadly force.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A coalition of over 50 organizations has accused the Trump administration of trying to sabotage an investigation into the killing of Alex Pretti, an intensive care nurse who was fatally shot by federal immigration enforcement agents last month. The groups claim the administration is blocking Minnesota law enforcement from accessing evidence and shielding federal agents from accountability, sending a message that "federal law enforcement can kill with absolute impunity."

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing tensions over the accountability of federal law enforcement, particularly around the use of deadly force. The groups argue it could set a dangerous precedent if federal agents are allowed to operate without consequences for constitutional violations and taking American lives.

The details

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) is continuing its investigation into Pretti's killing, as well as the fatal shootings of Minneapolis resident Renee Good and Venezuelan immigrant Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis, despite a lack of cooperation from federal authorities. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty says her office can still bring criminal charges against the federal immigration officers if there is sufficient evidence, even without the Trump administration's help.

  • Alex Pretti was fatally shot by federal agents last month.
  • The coalition of over 50 organizations released their statement condemning the Trump administration on February 24, 2026.

The players

Not Above the Law Coalition

A broad coalition of over 50 organizations that released a statement accusing the Trump administration of trying to sabotage the investigation into Alex Pretti's killing.

Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA)

The state law enforcement agency that is continuing its investigation into the killings of Alex Pretti, Renee Good, and Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis, despite a lack of cooperation from federal authorities.

Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty

The county attorney who says her office can still bring criminal charges against the federal immigration officers involved in Pretti's killing if there is sufficient evidence, even without the Trump administration's help.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“By blocking Minnesota's investigation and attempting to shield agents from accountability, the Trump administration is sending a clear message: federal law enforcement can kill with absolute impunity. This move attempts to place federal agents above the law and beyond the reach of justice.”

— Not Above the Law Coalition (commondreams.org)

“We demand immediate action. Mandatory independent investigations for all federal use of deadly force, recognition of state authority to investigate federal misconduct, federal cooperation with local investigators, and real consequences for constitutional violations. Without accountability, we allow federal forces to operate with impunity and face no consequences for taking American lives.”

— Not Above the Law Coalition (commondreams.org)

What’s next

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) has vowed to present its findings on the Pretti killing to the appropriate prosecutorial authorities for review, even without the assistance of federal investigators.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions over the accountability of federal law enforcement, particularly around the use of deadly force. The coalition's demands for mandatory independent investigations, recognition of state authority, and real consequences for constitutional violations underscore the need for greater oversight and transparency when it comes to federal agents' actions.