The Coalition of Chicagoland Bar Associations stands with the legal community in seeking accountability, transparency, and justice following the fatal shooting of Alex Jeffrey Pretti by federal Border Patrol agents in Minneapolis on January 24, 2026. The Coalition has grave concerns about potential constitutional violations against persons who are exercising their rights of speech and assembly to protest, observe and record law enforcement. The Coalition believes the following actions are necessary to achieve justice and accountability in connection with recent developments involving immigration enforcement actions in Minneapolis, Chicago, and across the country.
Immediate Actions:
- Full, independent state investigation of Mr. Pretti’s shooting without federal interference
- Release of all body camera footage and evidence related to Mr. Pretti’s shooting
- Retraction of inflammatory statements labeling Mr. Pretti a ‘domestic terrorist’
- Temporary suspension of immigration enforcement operations in Minneapolis by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement pending investigation and implementation of proper training and oversight
Congressional Action:
- Immediate oversight hearings on the pattern of deadly force and violence incidents against peaceful protestors involving federal immigration operations in Minneapolis, Chicago, and elsewhere
- Legislation mandating federal cooperation with state investigations related to immigration enforcement
- Strengthened accountability mechanisms for federal immigration enforcement
Systemic Reforms:
- Mandatory body cameras for all federal immigration agents
- Prompt public disclosure requirement for use-of-force incidents arising from immigration enforcement
- Establishment of a commission for independent civilian oversight of federal operations related to immigration enforcement
- Enhanced de-escalation training related to immigration enforcement emphasizing sanctity of human life
We also observe that when government accounts contradict video evidence independent verification becomes essential to justice. The legal profession must defend the right of citizens to record law enforcement activities, ensure preservation of video evidence, and demand that officials refrain from prejudicial statements before investigations conclude.
Our Commitment:
Peaceful protestors deserve the right to exercise their constitutional rights without fear of violence from their own government. The legal profession cannot remain silent when constitutional principles are threatened.
We stand with all individuals who cherish the rule of law.
The rule of law must apply equally to all, including and especially to those who enforce it.
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About the Coalition: The Coalition of Chicagoland Bar Associations unites voluntary bar associations across the region to amplify our collective voice on matters impacting the legal profession, the administration of justice, and the communities we serve. Through collaboration, shared resources, and joint advocacy, we seek to promote the rule of law, judicial independence, and equitable access to justice for all.
THE COALITION OF CHICAGOLAND BAR ASSOCIATIONS
Signatory Organizations: Black Men Lawyers Association Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago, Inc. Catholic Lawyers Guild Chicago Bar Association Chicago Council of Lawyers Decalogue Society of Lawyers Haitian American Lawyers Association – Illinois HLAI – Serving the Hispanic Lawyers of Illinois