The Minneapolis Shooting Demands a REAL Investigation (w/ Andrew Weissmann)

The administration consistently issues rapid, official statements following ICE shootings that are quickly disproven by video evidence. They immediately label victims as domestic terrorists and claim agents feared for their lives, without conducting proper investigations. This behavior, seen in the Minneapolis shooting and a prior incident, is a deliberate strategy to control the narrative and avoid accountability.

Steven Miller and other administration figures immediately identified Alex Jeffrey Prey as a 'domestic terrorist' and alleged he brandished a weapon, which video evidence clearly refutes. The administration's official statements were posted quickly on Twitter, preempting any real investigation.

Peaceful protesting and carrying a gun are constitutionally protected rights and not death-eligible offenses. The administration's justification for lethal force, based on mere possession of a gun or speculation of intent, is a gross overreaction and a violation of fundamental rights. Furthermore, ICE agents have been reported interfering with citizens filming, despite a recent federal judge's ruling protecting this First Amendment activity.

Weissmann states, 'peaceful protesting is not a death eligible offense. Carrying a gun is not a death eligible offense.' He notes the administration's speculation that Prey intended a 'mass shooting of law enforcement' based solely on gun possession. Reports of ICE agents attempting to seize phones and prevent recording are cited.

The administration's consistent backing of ICE agents, regardless of their actions, and refusal to conduct independent investigations creates a culture of impunity. This sends a message that the lives of those upset by these events do not matter, leading to a breakdown of justice and trust in law enforcement.

Weissmann states, 'It is about the administration's response to this that I think really inflames passions because there's no sense of justice being carried out.' He adds, 'ICE agents, no matter what they do, will be backed by this administration.'

While federal authorities are unlikely to investigate impartially, state and local jurisdictions have the power to investigate state crimes committed by federal agents. Crucially, federal pardons do not apply to state charges, offering a potential avenue for accountability. Public cooperation with state investigations by providing evidence is vital.

Weissmann explains, 'If there is a state crime in that state, they can go they can investigate.' He clarifies, 'Donald Trump cannot pardon somebody for state crimes.' He urges witnesses to 'get it to the state locals'.