In federal court testimony last month, FBI Special Agent Bernardo Medellin presented information that appeared to contradict sworn statements made by ICE agent Jonathan Ross regarding whether a man they were attempting to detain had requested to speak with his attorney. Medellin's testimony, given in Minnesota, also raised questions about whether Ross adhered to federal training protocols for interacting with drivers during an encounter that resulted in the death of Renee Nicole Good, 37, last week.
Ross was identified in multiple media reports as the agent who shot Good. While the Trump administration has not confirmed these reports, details about the shooter provided by Vice President JD Vance aligned with biographical information about Ross.
During a December hearing, Ross testified that in June he led a team seeking to apprehend Roberto Carlos Muñoz-Guatemala, who was subject to an administrative warrant for being in the U.S. without authorization. Ross stated that he and his team followed Muñoz-Guatemala in an unmarked car. According to his testimony, Ross, wearing ranger green and gray clothing with his badge displayed on his belt, approached Muñoz-Guatemala.
Medellin's testimony included details of federal training for law enforcement officers on how to handle interactions with individuals during traffic stops and other encounters. The specific point of contention revolved around whether Muñoz-Guatemala had requested to speak with his attorney prior to any further action taken by the agents. Ross testified that the request was not made, while Medellin's testimony suggested that such a request should have been documented and followed in a specific manner, potentially casting doubt on Ross's account.
The discrepancy in the testimonies could have significant implications for the ongoing investigation into the shooting of Renee Nicole Good. If Ross deviated from established protocols, it could lead to questions about the justification for the use of force. The case highlights the importance of adherence to standardized training and the potential consequences when law enforcement actions deviate from established guidelines.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing. The FBI and ICE have not yet released further statements regarding the conflicting testimonies. The case raises broader questions about accountability and transparency in law enforcement operations, particularly those involving immigration enforcement.
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