The Charges Against Gregory Morgan
Gregory Donnell Morgan Jr., an ICE agent, faces two counts of second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon after an encounter in Minneapolis. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty announced the charges on Thursday, noting that a warrant exists for his arrest.
Details of the February Incident
On Feb. 5, Morgan drove an unmarked SUV and pulled up next to another vehicle on a highway shoulder. He pointed his duty weapon at the heads of two people in the other car, according to accounts from interviews and video evidence. The driver of the targeted vehicle called 911, prompting an investigation by the Minnesota State Patrol the next day.
Morgan's Account and Prosecutor's View
Morgan told investigators he drew his firearm after the other vehicle rejoined traffic, claiming he and his partner were heading to the Whipple Federal Building after their shift. Mary Moriarty described the act as "extremely dangerous," arguing it exceeded any authority for a federal agent. She pointed out that Morgan's driving on the shoulder and use of the weapon could have sparked another tragedy in a community already reeling from similar events.
Link to Immigration Operation in Minnesota
Prosecutors have examined the behavior of immigration agents involved in the federal crackdown known as Operation Metro Surge. The Trump administration deployed 3,000 agents to Minnesota in late November, leading to arrests and confrontations. This operation included the fatal shootings of Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother, and Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, by immigration authorities.
The sources also report that the Operation Metro Surge resulted in the deaths of two U.S. citizens, Renee Good and Alex Pretti, during confrontations with immigration authorities.
Community Impact from the Crackdown
The killings of Good and Pretti fueled protests and drew criticism from lawmakers on both sides. Tom Homan, as Trump border czar, took over from Gregory Bovino and announced the operation's wind-down in February, though arrests persist.
What Happens Next for the Agent
Minnesota State Patrol investigators interviewed Morgan the next day. Morgan corroborated details from interviews with the victim as well as video of the incident. The Department of Homeland Security has not commented on the charges, leaving the agent's status unclear.
The sources also report that this is the first case of an ICE agent facing charges tied to Operation Metro Surge in Minnesota.