The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has launched an internal investigation into allegations that Gregory Bovino, a senior border patrol official, made disparaging comments about the Jewish faith of Minnesota's top federal prosecutor, Daniel Rosen. The New York Times reported that Bovino allegedly mocked Rosen's observance of Shabbat and used the phrase 'chosen people' in a derisive tone during a phone call on 12 January.
Bovino was the public face of 'Operation Metro Surge', a federal immigration crackdown in Minnesota that resulted in the fatal shootings of two US citizens, Renee Good and Alex Pretti, by federal agents. He was subsequently removed from his role, and Donald Trump dispatched 'border czar' Tom Homan to take control of the operation. Homan announced a reduction of the roughly 3,000 federal agents deployed across the state.
John Breckenridge, a special investigator with Customs and Border Protection, has opened an official inquiry into the allegation. A DHS spokesperson said the inquiry was standard procedure following a congressman's letter and did not indicate confirmation of wrongdoing. The investigation is focused solely on the alleged remarks, with no confirmation of whether other aspects of Bovino's conduct are under review.
Separately, Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty announced a criminal investigation into potential misconduct by federal officers, including Bovino, during the operation. Her office is examining 17 cases, including an incident where Bovino was seen throwing a smoke canister at protesters. DHS responded that states cannot prosecute federal officers, asserting that federal officials acting in their duties are immune from state liability.
Moriarty has set up an online portal for witnesses to upload photos, videos, and accounts from Operation Metro Surge. 'Make no mistake, we are not afraid of the legal fight, and we are committed to doing this correctly,' she said. 'Operation Metro Surge caused immeasurable harm to our community.'
