Hennepin County Attorney’s Office issues “Touhy” demands for federal information related to Alex Pretti’s killing, shooting of Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis

The Hennepin County Attorney’s Office (HCAO) issued more “Touhy” demands to the federal government, related to the death of Alex Pretti and shooting of Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis.

In state court, the HCAO uses subpoenas to obtain evidence. “Touhy” is the required process to obtain records and evidence from a federal agency.

We understand that the Trump administration sent a representative to oversee the discussions between the BCA and the FBI related to Alex Pretti’s death. A final decision was conveyed to the BCA at the end of last week that there would be no cooperation. While the federal government attempts to hide evidence, we are demanding that they reverse this decision and produce the evidence by March 3^rd.

“Hiding evidence and obstructing our investigation is unacceptable and indicates a total lack of confidence in their agents’ actions,” Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty said. “We are prepared to take further legal action should the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Justice fail to meet our deadline and continue to obstruct our investigations. Our work will reflect our commitment to transparency and accountability, even as the federal government tries to avoid both.”

"I have said from the start that there must be a fair, impartial, and transparent investigation into the killing of Alex Pretti, and today’s action is an important step in bringing that about," said Attorney General Keith Ellison. “The FBI's refusal to share evidence with state investigators is unprecedented and deeply troubling, but it will not stop our work to uncover the full story of Pretti’s death at the hands of federal agents. Alex Pretti’s loved ones and the people of Minnesota deserve the truth, and justice demands it.”

Examples of the information and evidence demanded include:

All physical evidence, such as firearms, cartridge casings, and uniforms
All videos and photographs recorded by federal agents, including those on personal devices
Names of all federal agents and officers involved in the shootings, on scene or who responded to the scene
Statements from federal agents or officers regarding the shootings
Medical records for agents or officers for any injury related to the shootings
Policies and procedures in effect on the date of the shootings

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