FARGO (KFGO/KVRR) – Two former local law enforcement officials say traditional protocols are not being followed after the deadly ICE shooting of a woman in south Minneapolis.
“We’ve had protocols in place that are very specific on how we handle these types of situations. They’re proven to work. Deviating from those for any reason – there has to be a very rational answer to do that,” Former Fargo Police Lt.Joel Vettel said.
Vettel’s comments come after the Justice Department blocked the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension from the investigation into the shooting death of 37-year-old Renee Good. He said the federal government’s move is unprecedented.
Former Moorhead Chief of Police Dave Ebinger is also surprised by the decision.
“When Kristi Noem’s comments came out [Wednesday], it just gobsmacked me,” Ebinger said. “This is a new approach. This is not what’s worked in the past.”
Ebinger worked extensively with the BCA and has nothing but praise for the agency.
“It’s just a top-notch operation. To have them involved, and to have the caliber of leadership that’s involved with public safety – I think it’d set a lot of people’s minds at ease,” Ebinger said.
Both men say that a comprehensive, coordinated investigation is in everyone’s best interests, regardless of your political views – because the lack of one will lead to more needless division.
“Even if every federal agent does their job diligently – if there’s still this perceived divide, there’ll be an awful lot of people who won’t accept anything they come through with,” explained Ebinger.
Ebinger added specifically that it’s not too late to change course and prevent that acrimony. He called on Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to let the Minnesota BCA back into the investigation.
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