Minnesota Charges ICE Agent With Assault for Pointing Gun at Motorists
Hennep County prosecutors charged ICE agent Gregory Donnell Morgan Jr. with two counts of second-degree assault for allegedly pointing a gun at civilians during a February 2026 traffic incident in Minneapolis. This marks the first criminal charge against a federal agent involved in the controversial "Operation Metro Surge" immigration crackdown, which has sparked national debate over federal authority and accountability. With a nationwide arrest warrant issued, the case highlights escalating tensions between local authorities and federal immigration enforcement amidst reports of excessive force and fatal shootings in the region.
Editorial summary awaiting refresh
Cross-source coverage
Wire timeline
Minnesota Prosecutors Charge ICE Agent with Assault for Pointing Gun at Drivers
Prosecutors in Hennepin County, Minnesota, have charged US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent Gregory Donnell Morgan with two counts of second-degree assault. The charges stem from an incident in February 2026, where Morgan allegedly pointed his duty weapon at two individuals in another vehicle along a highway in the Twin Cities area. According to the complaint, Morgan attempted to bypass slower traffic by driving on the shoulder. When the other vehicle moved to the shoulder to slow him down, Morgan accelerated, opened his window, and aimed his gun at the occupants while continuing to drive illegally. Morgan claimed he acted out of fear for his safety. An active nationwide arrest warrant has been issued for the 35-year-old agent. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty stated these are likely the first charges brought against an ICE officer related to the Trump administration's recent immigration crackdown in the state. This legal action occurs amidst heightened tensions and nationwide protests following fatal shootings of two US citizens in Minnesota earlier in the year. Neither ICE nor the Department of Homeland Security provided immediate comments on the charges.
JPost.com - The Jerusalem Post - All News from the Middle East, Israel, and the Jewish WorldMinnesota Prosecutors Charge ICE Agent with Assault
Prosecutors in Hennepin County, Minnesota, have formally charged a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent with assault. The charges stem from an incident that occurred in February along a highway in Minneapolis. According to the allegations, the federal agent pointed his firearm at two individuals who were inside a car. This legal action marks a significant development in the oversight of federal law enforcement conduct, as local authorities pursue criminal charges against a federal officer. The case highlights tensions between local jurisdictions and federal immigration enforcement agencies. The incident took place earlier this year, but the formal charging decision was announced on April 16 in Washington. The specific details regarding the context of the traffic stop or the interaction leading to the weapon being drawn were not elaborated upon in the brief report, but the core allegation involves the threatening use of a deadly weapon against civilians. The involvement of Hennepin County prosecutors indicates that local law enforcement is taking the lead in investigating and prosecuting this specific instance of alleged misconduct by a federal agent.
The Straits Times World NewsMinnesota Prosecutors Charge ICE Agent with Assault for Pointing Gun at Drivers
Prosecutors in Hennepin County, Minnesota, have charged US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent Gregory Donnell Morgan with two counts of second-degree assault. The charges stem from an incident in February 2026 where Morgan allegedly pointed his duty weapon at two individuals in another vehicle along a highway in the Minneapolis area. According to the complaint, Morgan attempted to bypass slower traffic, and when the victims moved to the shoulder to slow him down, he accelerated, opened his window, and aimed his gun at them while driving illegally on the shoulder. Morgan claimed he feared for his safety, but prosecutors have issued an active nationwide warrant for his arrest. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty stated these are likely the first charges against an ICE officer related to the Trump administration’s 2026 immigration crackdown in Minnesota. This event occurs amidst heightened tensions following fatal shootings by immigration agents earlier in the year, which sparked nationwide protests. While President Donald Trump defends ICE actions as necessary for security, rights advocates argue the crackdown violates due process and targets minority communities.
The Straits Times World NewsMinnesota Seeks Arrest of ICE Officer for Pointing Gun at Citizens
Prosecutors in Minnesota have issued an arrest warrant for Gregory Donnell Morgan Jr., an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer, accusing him of brandishing a firearm at two individuals on a highway. The incident occurred on February 5 during Operation Metro Surge in the Twin Cities area. Morgan faces two counts of second-degree assault related to the altercation. This development highlights growing tensions and legal scrutiny surrounding federal immigration enforcement tactics within the state. The charges stem from a specific confrontation where the officer allegedly pointed his weapon at citizens, prompting a criminal investigation by local authorities. The case underscores the complex jurisdictional interactions between federal law enforcement agencies and state prosecutorial powers. As the legal proceedings commence, the incident has drawn attention to the conduct of federal agents during intensified immigration operations. The summary relies on the provided title and brief description, as the full article text was inaccessible due to technical restrictions on the source website.
Just In NewsMinnesota Charges First ICE Agent With Felony Assault
Gregory Donnell Morgan Jr., a 35-year-old Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent, has been charged with two felony counts of second-degree assault in Minneapolis. This marks the first time a federal agent has faced local prosecution for actions taken while on duty, according to Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty. The charges stem from an incident during President Trump’s Operation Metro Surge, where Morgan pointed his gun at two civilians in a car while driving an unmarked vehicle on a highway. Morgan claimed he feared for his safety after being cut off, but authorities characterized it as a road rage incident. An active warrant is out for his arrest. The article highlights this charge as a significant yet insufficient development, criticizing that Morgan is the only agent charged despite allegations of excessive force and fatal shootings of Alex Pretti and Renee Good during the ten-week operation. The report underscores tensions between local authorities and federal immigration enforcement tactics, raising questions about accountability and the use of force by federal agents in civilian contexts.
The New RepublicICE Agent Charged for Pointing Gun at Minnesota Motorist
A federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent has faced rare criminal charges for pointing a gun at a motorist in Minnesota, marking a significant legal development. According to a Minneapolis prosecutor, this incident represents the first time a federal agent has been criminally charged for conduct occurring during Operation Metro Surge. The operation, aimed at enhancing immigration enforcement efforts, has come under scrutiny due to this unprecedented legal action against an involved agent. The charging decision highlights the accountability measures being applied to federal law enforcement personnel when their actions allegedly exceed legal boundaries or involve excessive force. This case draws attention to the tensions between aggressive immigration enforcement strategies and civil liberties, particularly concerning interactions with local residents. The specific details of the confrontation, including the identity of the motorist and the precise circumstances leading to the agent drawing their weapon, underscore the gravity of the allegations. As the legal proceedings commence, the case is expected to spark broader discussions regarding federal policing tactics, the oversight of immigration operations, and the rights of individuals encountered during such surges. The outcome may set a precedent for how similar incidents involving federal agents are handled in the future.
WSJ.com : U.S. NewsICE Agent Charged With Felony Assault After Minnesota Highway Incident
An Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent has been formally charged with felony assault following a controversial incident that occurred in February on a highway in Minnesota. The charges stem from an altercation where the federal agent allegedly drew his firearm and pointed it at a vehicle. This development marks a significant legal escalation in a case that has drawn public attention regarding the conduct of federal law enforcement officers during routine interactions. The incident, which took place earlier this year, involved the agent using his weapon in a manner that prosecutors deemed unlawful, leading to the current felony charges. As the legal proceedings begin, the case highlights ongoing scrutiny of ICE operations and the use of force by federal agents. The specific details surrounding the initial traffic stop or confrontation that led to the gun being drawn are central to the prosecution's case. This event underscores the tensions between federal immigration enforcement activities and local communities, raising questions about accountability and proper protocol for armed agents when engaging with civilians on public roadways.
NewsweekICE Agent Charged with Assault for Allegedly Pointing Gun at Civilians in Minnesota
Gregory Donnell Morgan Jr., an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent, has been formally charged in connection with an incident where he allegedly pointed a firearm at civilians in Minnesota. On Thursday, a Minnesota prosecutor announced that Morgan faces two counts of second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon. In addition to the charges, an arrest warrant has been issued for the agent. The case highlights serious allegations of misconduct by a federal law enforcement officer against members of the public. Second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon is a significant criminal charge in Minnesota, indicating the severity with which prosecutors view the alleged actions. The incident has drawn attention due to the involvement of a federal agent and the nature of the confrontation with civilians. As the legal proceedings commence, the warrant for Morgan's arrest remains active, signaling the immediate steps taken by local authorities to address the situation. This development underscores ongoing scrutiny regarding the conduct of immigration enforcement agents and their interactions with communities. The source of this report is NBC News, which provided the initial details regarding the charges and the status of the arrest warrant issued by the state prosecutor.
NBC News Top StoriesICE Agent Charged with Assault for Pointing Gun at Drivers on Minnesota Highway
Gregory Morgan Jr., an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent, has been charged with two counts of second-degree assault for allegedly pointing a handgun at two individuals on a highway in the Twin Cities area. The incident occurred on February 5 during Operation Metro Surge, when Morgan, driving an unmarked vehicle on the shoulder, confronted drivers who had merged in front of him. Although Morgan claimed he feared for his safety and identified himself as police, the victims, unaware of his status, called 911. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty described the actions as extremely dangerous and beyond the scope of lawful authority, marking a significant step in holding federal agents accountable. This charge is part of a broader investigation into alleged misconduct by federal agents in Minnesota, which includes other incidents involving excessive force. Morgan was charged by warrant due to concerns he might evade summons, and his current employment status with ICE remains unclear. The case highlights ongoing tensions between local authorities and federal immigration enforcement operations.
Home - CBSNews.comCounty Prosecutor Charges ICE Agent with Assault for Pointing Gun at Motorists in Minneapolis
Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty has charged Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent Gregory Donnell Morgan Jr. with two counts of second-degree aggravated assault. The charges stem from a February 5 incident in Minneapolis, where Morgan allegedly pointed his service weapon at occupants of a vehicle on Minnesota State Highway 62. According to the arrest warrant, Morgan was driving an unmarked SUV on the highway shoulder when another car moved onto the shoulder to slow him down. After the vehicle returned to the legal lane, Morgan pulled alongside and drew his gun, yelling "Police Stop," though the victims could not hear him due to closed windows. Moriarty stated this is likely the first criminal case against a federal immigration officer involved in the Trump administration's intensified enforcement crackdown. She emphasized that federal agents do not have absolute immunity for violating state laws. The incident occurred as Morgan and his partner were ending their shift, not during an active enforcement action. This development intensifies tensions between Minnesota officials and the Trump administration, with Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche previously warning against prosecuting federal agents for official duties. Morgan faces up to seven years in prison if convicted.
AP NewsICE Agent Charged with Assault in Minnesota Over Gun Incident During Traffic Stop
Prosecutors in Hennepin County, Minnesota, have criminally charged federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent Gregory Donnell Morgan Jr. with two counts of second-degree assault. This marks a unprecedented legal action against an ICE officer following the controversial Operation Metro Surge under the Trump administration. The charges stem from a February incident where Morgan, driving an unmarked SUV on the shoulder of Highway 62, allegedly sped alongside another vehicle, opened his window, and pointed his firearm directly at the occupants. If convicted, Morgan faces up to 36 months in prison. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty announced the charges, emphasizing that illegal driving and threatening citizens with a gun fall well beyond the scope of federal authority. Despite the Trump administration's assertion that federal agents possess absolute immunity from state prosecution, Moriarty affirmed her office's commitment to holding individuals accountable for violating Minnesota laws. The case highlights escalating tensions between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities, particularly after recent fatal shootings involving federal agents in the state sparked national outrage. Local authorities have issued an arrest warrant for Morgan, signaling a significant step in seeking accountability for alleged misconduct during aggressive immigration enforcement operations.
The Independent WorldICE Agent Charged with Felony Assault for Pointing Gun at Motorists in Minneapolis
Gregory Morgan Jr., a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent, has been charged with two counts of second-degree assault in Minneapolis. The Hennepin County Attorney’s office announced the charges on April 16, 2026, regarding an incident that occurred on February 5. According to prosecutors, Morgan was driving illegally on the shoulder of the road when he allegedly brandished a handgun at two motorists who had cut him off. The complaint states that Morgan’s vehicle lacked law enforcement markings, lights, or sirens, and he pointed the weapon directly at the victims' heads while yelling an indiscernible phrase. Morgan claimed he feared for his safety and shouted Police Stop, but investigators noted no official police activity was occurring. A nationwide arrest warrant has been issued, though Morgan remains at large. This case arises during a period of heightened tension in Minneapolis concerning federal immigration enforcement and recent controversies involving federal law enforcement actions. The Department of Homeland Security has not yet commented on the charges.
ABC News: Top StoriesMinnesota Charges ICE Officer with Assault Amid Immigration Surge
Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty announced on April 16, 2026, that an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent has been charged with assault. This legal action stems from a February incident in Minneapolis, Minnesota, marking the first charges filed against a federal immigration agent related to the recent crackdown known as Operation Metro Surge. The operation involved the deployment of thousands of federal officers to the state and resulted in significant controversy, including the shooting deaths of two American citizens. These charges represent a notable escalation in accountability efforts concerning federal law enforcement conduct during the intensified immigration enforcement campaign. The announcement highlights growing tensions between local authorities in Minnesota and federal immigration agencies. As the first of its kind in this context, the case is expected to draw national attention regarding the limits of federal authority and the protection of civil rights during large-scale security operations. The incident underscores the complex legal and social ramifications of the surge, which has impacted communities across the state and sparked debates over policing tactics and immigrant rights.
nprMinnesota Charges ICE Officer with Assault Amid Immigration Crackdown
Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty announced on April 16, 2026, that an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent has been charged with assault. This legal action stems from an incident in February during a significant federal immigration enforcement surge in Minnesota. Officials stated that these are the first charges filed against a federal immigration agent connected to the widespread crackdown, which involved thousands of federal officers deployed to the state. The operation was marked by intense controversy and violence, notably resulting in the shooting deaths of two American citizens. The charging of the ICE officer represents a significant development in the ongoing tension between state authorities and federal immigration enforcement agencies. This event highlights the legal and social repercussions of the aggressive immigration policies implemented in the region, drawing national attention to the conduct of federal agents and the accountability mechanisms available to local jurisdictions when dealing with federal law enforcement actions during high-stakes operations.
nprICE Agent Charged with Assault for Pointing Gun in Minneapolis
An Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent, Gregory Donnell Morgan Jr., has been charged with two counts of second-degree assault for allegedly pointing a gun at two civilians during a traffic incident in Minneapolis. The incident occurred on February 5, 2026, when Morgan drove illegally on the shoulder of Highway 62 to bypass congestion. After another driver swerved to slow him down, Morgan reportedly sped up alongside the vehicle and brandished his weapon. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty stated that Morgan was not in uniform and his vehicle lacked markings, causing the victims to fear for their lives. The victims, who were unrelated to ongoing immigration protests, could not hear Morgan shouting police commands. This charge marks the first against an officer involved in the recent aggressive federal immigration crackdown in the Twin Cities, which has seen thousands of arrests and violent clashes. While Morgan remains at large, authorities are also investigating other alleged misconduct by federal personnel, including fatal shootings and the use of force against protesters, though evidence collection in those cases faces significant obstacles.
ashingtonpostMinnesota Charges ICE Officer with Assault for Pointing Gun at Vehicle
State and local prosecutors in Minnesota have charged Gregory Donnell Morgan, Jr., an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer, with two counts of second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon. The charges stem from a February 5 incident during the 'Operation Metro Surge' immigration enforcement crackdown. According to the complaint, Morgan pointed a handgun at two individuals in another vehicle on a Hennepin County highway after they attempted to block his unmarked SUV from driving on the shoulder. The victims, unaware he was a federal agent, reported the incident to police, providing video evidence and license plate data that identified the vehicle as rented by an ICE agent. Morgan claimed he acted out of fear for his safety and yelled 'Police Stop,' but authorities rejected this defense. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty announced the charges as a significant step toward accountability, noting that evidence collection was more straightforward in this case compared to recent fatal shootings involving federal immigration officers in the region. A nationwide arrest warrant has been issued for Morgan, who remains at large.
npr