DHS Suspends Border Chief's Social Media After Controversial Claims

The Department of Homeland Security has suspended Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino's social media access following his controversial online statements about a civilian shooting victim, marking a significant escalation in the federal response to mounting public criticism.The suspension came after Bovino made unverified claims on social media that Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse killed by federal agents in Minneapolis over the weekend, was planning to harm law enforcement officers. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and calls for accountability in federal enforcement operations.Bovino's online behavior drew particular scrutiny when he engaged directly with critics, including CNN journalist Jake Tapper, defending his record against judicial findings that he had previously lied in depositions. In one exchange, when confronted about a judge's statement regarding his credibility, Bovino challenged critics to "identify the lie" while dismissing other concerns with simple "lol" responses.DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin clarified that despite the social media restrictions, Bovino remains in his position. "Chief Gregory Bovino has NOT been relieved of his duties," McLaughlin stated on X, describing him as "a key part of the President's team and a great American."The controversy intensifies as Bovino prepares to leave his Minneapolis post, with White House border czar Tom Homan set to take over daily immigration enforcement operations in the region. Sources familiar with the matter describe the transition as "mutual," though unnamed officials indicate growing frustration within the Trump administration over the handling of Minneapolis tensions.The incident underscores broader questions about federal law enforcement's digital communications strategy and accountability measures. As social media increasingly becomes a platform for official discourse, the Bovino case highlights the potential risks when enforcement officials engage directly with public criticism online.White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has since distanced the administration from labeling Pretti a "domestic terrorist," noting that the president had not personally used such terminology to describe the victim.Source: The Mirror