Minnesota must investigate ICE shooting deaths

By Noah Feldman / Bloomberg Opinion

If ICE agents can shoot civilians at point-blank range and never be held accountable, then we aren’t living under the rule of law. We’re living in a police state.

The law on the books is extremely clear that Minnesota prosecutors and law enforcement have the authority to investigate and criminally charge Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents who have not acted in a way that is “necessary and proper” to carry out their official duties. That certainly includes unjustified shootings. Legal immunity from state prosecution for federal officials arises only if they are found to have been carrying out their duties in that manner.

The problem is the law on the ground. In practice, the federal government is doing everything it can to impede those investigations. We are therefore at a crucial juncture for the rule of law in the US.

Minnesota officials can commence investigations and thereby preserve the rule of law; without waiting for coordination with the federal government, which hasn’t been forthcoming.

https://www.heraldnet.com/opinion/comment-minnesota-must-investigate-ice-shooting-deaths/