The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has launched an internal investigation into allegations that Gregory Bovino, a senior border patrol official, made disparaging remarks about the Jewish faith of Minnesota’s top federal prosecutor, according to a report by the New York Times. The investigation comes after Bovino, who gained notoriety for his role in a highly scrutinized immigration crackdown in Minnesota that resulted in the deaths of two US citizens, allegedly mocked federal prosecutor Daniel Rosen during a January phone call. According to the Times, Bovino made sarcastic comments about Rosen’s observance of Shabbat and used the phrase ‘chosen people’ in a derisive tone during the call. The call occurred after Bovino requested a meeting with Rosen to push for a stronger response from the Minnesota US attorney’s office in criminalizing individuals Bovino believed were impeding federal agents from enforcing the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. The DHS spokesperson confirmed that an internal inquiry has been opened, but emphasized that it does not indicate any confirmation of wrongdoing. This development comes as a Minnesota prosecutor announced a criminal investigation into alleged misconduct by federal officers, including Bovino, during the surge. The investigation will examine 17 cases, including an incident captured on video where Bovino was seen throwing a smoke canister at protesters. The DHS has responded by stating that such enforcement is a federal responsibility and that states cannot prosecute federal officers. The investigation raises questions about the conduct of federal officials and the potential impact on the community. It remains to be seen how the investigation will unfold and whether it will lead to any disciplinary action against Bovino.
