Shooting Incident
Renee Nicole Good was fatally shot by ICE officer Jonathan Ross in Minneapolis. Video footage shows Good behind the wheel of her vehicle. Another ICE officer approached her vehicle, reportedly attempting to open her door and issuing verbal commands. Good's door was locked. As Good backed her vehicle and then moved forward, turning the wheel to avoid Officer Ross, he discharged his firearm through the windshield and then an open window.
Conflicting Perspectives on Self-Defense
Officer Ross and his representatives contend the shooting was an act of self-defense, citing a belief that Ross's life was threatened. Ross reportedly released a video recording of the incident.
Critics of the self-defense claim, including writer Luke O’Neil and law professor Jonathan Kahn, argue that the concept of "fearing for one's life" is disproportionately applied. Kahn suggested that if Ross had not shot Good, there would have been no threat to his life. Attorney David Lurie stated that the video indicated Good was attempting to de-escalate the situation, while ICE officers were escalating it. Good was reportedly observed smiling at Ross earlier in the encounter, before the other officer's direct approach.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is conducting an investigation into the shooting. Criticisms have been raised regarding the investigation's reliability, particularly following Officer Ross's release of his own video to media outlets. This action suggested the FBI may not have full control over all evidence.
State and local prosecutors are reportedly gathering their own evidence, which could lead to a criminal investigation of a federal officer. If a state criminal case proceeds against a federal officer, it is likely to be "removed" to federal court. In such a scenario, state officials would prosecute the case under state criminal laws.
A potential legal issue would be "Supremacy Clause immunity," where the court would determine if the officer's conduct was consistent with federal law and governing law enforcement policies. If deemed consistent, a state prosecution might be ruled unconstitutional.
Dissent and Implications
Attorney David Lurie noted that some of Ross's defenders argued Good and her spouse were a "threat" due to their apparent protest of ICE activities. Lurie described this perspective as "deeply concerning," implying a belief that dissent could justify lethal force.