The family of Renee Nicole Good, the 37-year-old woman fatally shot by a federal agent during a protest in Minneapolis on January 7, 2023, expressed cautious optimism regarding the conclusion of the immigration enforcement operation in Minnesota. This sentiment follows a statement from Tom Homan, the White House Border Czar, indicating that “Operation Metro Surge” will soon be winding down.
“We are cautiously optimistic about the drawdown of federal agents from Minnesota, and we are hopeful that it brings much needed relief to members of the community there,” said Antonio Romanucci, an attorney representing Good’s family, in an emailed statement. He emphasized that while the departure of federal agents is a positive development, it does not diminish the need for accountability regarding their actions during the operation. Romanucci reiterated the family’s commitment to seeking justice for Good and expressed ongoing concerns about the presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in communities nationwide.
Good was among two individuals killed during the two-month operation, which has been described by the Department of Homeland Security as its “largest immigration enforcement operation ever.” The initiative, primarily focused on the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, resulted in over 4,000 arrests and has sparked significant debate over the immigration policies promoted during the administration of former President Donald Trump.
Homan stated during a news conference that the operation has made Minnesota safer, claiming it has reduced the state’s status as a sanctuary for criminals. “We’ve seen a big change here the last couple weeks — and it’s all good changes,” Homan asserted. He added that a significant drawdown of federal agents has already begun and will continue into the upcoming week.
Furthermore, Homan indicated that similar operations could be initiated in other states as part of ongoing efforts to enhance public safety and fulfill Trump’s promise of stricter border security and mass deportations. “We have a lot of work to do across this country to remove public safety risks, who shouldn’t even be in this country,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of law enforcement’s role in these operations.
The family of Renee Good, while hopeful, remains vigilant. They continue to advocate for accountability and proper conduct by federal agents, underscoring the need for respect for constitutional rights in all communities. The situation remains closely monitored, as the nation watches how the drawdown of federal agents will affect local communities and immigration policies moving forward.
