ICE Agent Charged with Assault in Minnesota for Allegedly Pointing Gun at Motorists
Federal prosecutors in Minnesota have announced criminal charges against an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent for allegedly pointing his service weapon at occupants of a vehicle on a Minneapolis highway. This case is believed to be the first criminal prosecution of a federal immigration officer involved in the Trump administration's heightened enforcement operations.
Details of the Incident and Charges
According to charging documents, Gregory Donnell Morgan Jr, a 35-year-old ICE officer, was driving a rented, unmarked SUV on the shoulder of Minnesota State Highway 62 on February 5, 2026. A car moved onto the shoulder to slow him down, unaware he was a federal agent. After the car returned to the legal lane, Morgan pulled alongside and pointed his gun at the people inside.
Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty stated that Morgan has been charged with two counts of second-degree aggravated assault, one for each occupant of the vehicle. An arrest warrant has been issued, and if convicted, Morgan could face up to seven years in prison per count, or up to ten years if substantial bodily harm is proven.
Prosecutor's Statement and Legal Implications
During a news conference, Moriarty emphasized that Morgan's actions exceeded the authority of a federal officer. "There is no such thing as absolute immunity for federal agents who violate the law in the state of Minnesota," she declared. The incident occurred as Morgan and his partner, who was not charged, were caught in traffic while heading to end their shift, and it was not part of an enforcement action.
Charging documents reveal that Morgan told a state patrol officer he yelled "Police. Stop," but the victims could not hear him due to closed windows. Department of Homeland Security and Justice Department officials have not yet commented, and attempts to reach Morgan for a response were unsuccessful.
Context and Broader Impact
This case highlights ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement, particularly under policies that surged federal agents into cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, Portland, and New Orleans. The charges underscore legal accountability for federal officers and may influence future enforcement practices and public trust.
