By MES Dispatch staff
The Briefing
- Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz authorized the Minnesota National Guard to be staged and ready to support law enforcement in Minneapolis after a federal ICE officer shot and killed a woman.
- The National Guard’s role is to help protect public safety and critical infrastructure if needed amid protests and civil unrest.
- The State Patrol’s Mobile Response Team and other resources have also been mobilized as a precaution.
- Walz said peaceful demonstrations so far have predominated but emphasized preparation for security needs.
- The shooting and response have heightened tensions between state and federal authorities.
MINNEAPOLIS, MN — Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz authorized the Minnesota National Guard to be staged and prepared to support local and state law enforcement following the fatal shooting of a woman by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer, officials said Thursday.
Tom Baker/AP
Walz’s order directs the National Guard to be ready to assist in protecting critical infrastructure and helping maintain public safety should unrest arise in the Twin Cities area.
The authorization comes amid ongoing protests and heightened tensions after the shooting, which occurred earlier in the week during a federal immigration enforcement action in south Minneapolis.
In addition to guard readiness, the Minnesota State Patrol mobilized members of its Mobile Response Team to support law enforcement efforts, the governor’s office said. Walz said peaceful demonstrations have predominated but that precautionary measures are necessary to ensure safety.
State and federal leaders continue to address safety and investigative matters related to the shooting, which has drawn national attention and discussions about law enforcement protocols.