Gov. Gavin Newsom (D-Calif.) is urging Californians to remain peaceful while reporting alleged misconduct by federal law enforcement agents, as state officials stress that constitutional protections apply to everyone.
Newsom Invokes Constitution Amid Federal Enforcement Concerns
On Sunday, Newsom posted the message on X while sharing guidance from the California Department of Justice, writing, “No President and no administration is above our country’s Constitution, and no one in this country is without rights.”
He called on residents to “support your community by staying peaceful and prepared.”
Newsom’s post comes amid ongoing debate over federal immigration enforcement in California.
California DOJ Outlines How To Report Federal Agent Misconduct
California Attorney General Rob Bonta’s office said the public may file complaints, including video or photographic evidence, alleging potentially unlawful activity by federal agents or personnel operating in California.
Examples include excessive force, unlawful searches or arrests, wrongful detention, interference with voting, or other civil-rights violations.
The Department of Justice noted that federal agents have broad authority to enforce federal law, including immigration law, but said that authority must be exercised lawfully.
The office also cautioned that submitting a complaint does not guarantee action and emphasized that it cannot provide legal advice or represent private individuals.
Minnesota Protests Grow After Federal Agent Shooting
On Saturday, Federal immigration agents fatally shot a U.S. citizen, Alex Pretti, during protests in Minneapolis, marking the second such killing this month, according to Reuters.
The President Donald Trump administration says officers acted in self-defense, but bystander videos show Pretti holding a cellphone before he was shot, contradicting that claim.
Gov. Tim Walz has demanded that the agents leave Minnesota and sought court action to limit federal operations.
The incident has sparked large protests and intensified scrutiny of federal immigration enforcement in the state.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) said Democrats would block DHS funding because the bill did not sufficiently address alleged misconduct by immigration agents.
He warned they would not vote to advance the appropriations measure if it included DHS funding, a stance he took after a fatal Border Patrol shooting in Minneapolis.
Photo Courtesy: Sheila Fitzgerald on Shutterstock.com
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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