Investigation into Gregory Bovino's Remarks and Conduct During Immigration Operation

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has initiated an internal investigation into Gregory Bovino, a senior Border Patrol commander, following allegations that he made disparaging remarks regarding the Jewish faith of Daniel N. Rosen, the U.S. Attorney for Minnesota. During a phone call on January 12, 2026, Bovino reportedly expressed frustration over Rosen's observance of Shabbat, a weekly period of rest for Orthodox Jews, which he claimed made Rosen difficult to reach. Sources indicate that Bovino used the term “chosen people” in a sarcastic manner and questioned whether Orthodox Jewish criminals adhered to the law during this time.

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Bovino's comments surfaced amid heightened scrutiny of his leadership during "Operation Metro Surge," an aggressive immigration enforcement initiative in Minnesota that resulted in the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens, Renee Good and Alex Pretti. The operation, which began in December 2025, involved approximately 3,000 federal agents and aimed to target undocumented immigrants deemed as serious offenders. Following the shootings, which sparked widespread protests, Bovino was removed from his position overseeing the operation.

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In addition to the DHS investigation into Bovino's remarks, the Hennepin County Attorney's Office has launched a separate inquiry into potential misconduct by federal officers during Operation Metro Surge. This investigation, termed the Transparency and Accountability Project, is examining 17 incidents, including one where Bovino allegedly deployed a smoke canister against protesters. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty has stated her office is prepared to pursue charges if evidence of unlawful conduct is found.

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DHS has responded to the county's investigation by asserting that federal officials are immune from state prosecution while performing their duties. A spokesperson emphasized that the inquiry into Bovino's comments is standard procedure and does not imply any wrongdoing.

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Moriarty has expressed her commitment to conducting a thorough investigation, stating, “Make no mistake, we are not afraid of the legal fight, and we are committed to doing this correctly.” Meanwhile, DHS reiterated that local authorities cannot prosecute federal agents, framing the county's actions as unlawful.

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Critics of Bovino's conduct have highlighted the aggressive tactics employed during Operation Metro Surge, including the use of chemical agents against protesters. Legal experts, such as Rachel Moran from the University of St. Thomas, have indicated that there may be grounds for charges against federal agents if evidence of excessive force or unlawful actions is substantiated.

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The investigations into Bovino's remarks and the broader conduct of federal agents during Operation Metro Surge are ongoing. The outcomes may lead to significant legal ramifications for those involved, as well as further scrutiny of federal immigration enforcement practices in Minnesota.

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“Make no mistake, we are not afraid of the legal fight, and we are committed to doing this correctly,” — Mary Moriarty, Hennepin County Attorney

The Guardian

“Following a letter from a Congressman inquiring about reporting on anonymous allegations, CBP opened an internal inquiry to determine the full story. This is standard procedure and does NOT indicate any confirmation of wrongdoing.” — DHS Spokesperson

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“Federal officials acting in the course of their duties are immune from liability under state law.” — DHS Statement

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“I think agents did illegal things here. I watched it.” — Rachel Moran, Professor of Criminal Law and Policing

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