Vice President JD Vance has said the ICE agent involved in the death of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good in Minnesota will not face criminal charges. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Vance stated the agent has “absolute immunity,” arguing the officer was carrying out federal duties at the time. “He was doing his job,” Vance said, adding that efforts by Minnesota officials to pursue the case were “preposterous.” He maintained that because the operation involved federal law enforcement, jurisdiction rests solely with federal authorities.
Vance’s comments came amid criticism from state officials after Minnesota’s Bureau of Criminal Apprehension said it was denied access to the investigation. The agency’s superintendent, Drew Evans, confirmed that the U.S. attorney’s office barred state investigators from participating, leaving the case under the exclusive control of the FBI. Evans said this prevented state authorities from reviewing evidence, conducting interviews, or completing an independent investigation.
Federal officials have described the encounter as a legitimate law-enforcement action. The Department of Homeland Security alleged that Good “weaponized her vehicle,” labeling the event an act of domestic terrorism—a characterization later echoed by President Donald Trump. However, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey strongly disputed that account. He argued the ICE agent acted recklessly and rejected claims that the officer was acting in self-defense.
Public debate has intensified as investigations continue, with state leaders calling for transparency and accountability while federal officials insist the agent is legally protected. The circumstances surrounding Renee Nicole Good’s death remain under review.