Bovino Denies Allegations of Border Agents ‘Grabbing Americans’ in Minnesota Protests

In a recent interview, Chief Border Patrol Agent Greg Bovino disputed claims that federal immigration agents in Minneapolis are “grabbing American citizens off the street,” calling such reports “a flat-out lie.”

Bovino stated that individuals who commit crimes—including assaults on officers—will be arrested regardless of their citizenship. “As far as American citizens, if you assault a federal officer or any law enforcement officer, that’s 18 U.S.C. 111 assault on a federal officer,” he explained.

He emphasized that the law applies to all individuals: “It doesn’t matter if you’re an illegal alien, an American citizen, or you could be an alien from outer space. We are going to arrest you, and we’re not going to put up with that.”

Bovino noted that Americans are frequently arrested for offenses such as narcotics trafficking and alien smuggling, adding, “This is a nation of laws.”

The interview occurred after President Donald Trump was reported discussing the potential invocation of the Insurrection Act in Minnesota. Bovino said Trump has indicated he does not believe it is necessary “right now.”

Bovino praised both President Trump and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem for relying on information from law enforcement on the ground.

He described repeated encounters with migrants who have violent criminal records, including an individual who served three years for aggravated assault.

When asked about Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison’s criticism of ICE tactics as a cause of unrest, Bovino labeled Ellison’s comments “reprehensible” and “the speech of anarchy.” He suggested Ellison should complete the Border Patrol Academy to better understand law enforcement operations.

Bovino acknowledged that most residents support law enforcement efforts but may express it discreetly to avoid targeting by extremists.

He also noted that smaller groups have become radicalized, adding that while he believes widespread public support for law enforcement exists, extremist elements are growing.

Regarding reports of Justice Department scrutiny of Minnesota leaders over alleged interference with ICE operations, Bovino welcomed the issuance of subpoenas and stated that investigators should determine the facts: “I do believe it’s fantastic that subpoenas have been issued. No one is above the law.”

In a separate comment on Chicago legal proceedings, Bovino criticized judges who he claimed were advancing personal agendas rather than impartial rulings. He recounted an instance where a judge attempted to require him to report daily, an arrangement that was later overturned by a higher court.