As investigations deepen into a series of violent incidents involving federal agents in Minnesota, FBI Director Kash Patel is urging the public to slow down and allow authorities to complete their work without outside pressure or speculation.
According to Fox News, Patel addressed the growing controversy during an appearance on Fox News’ “Hannity” on Monday, where he cautioned against rushing to judgment while multiple probes remain active.
“Do not let the media cement a false narrative. Let these investigations run its course,” Patel said. “Let us do our job with our inter-agency and state and local partners, and let’s all take a breath and calm down the situation, because when investigations like this are run properly, like we’ve done under President Trump’s leadership, that’s the only way you can drop the murder rate 20 points.”
His remarks come as the Department of Homeland Security investigates two fatal incidents involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol agents in Minnesota, cases that have fueled public anger, protests, and political backlash.
Patel emphasized that the FBI is focused on facts, not public pressure, as tensions continue to rise in the region. He said careful coordination between federal, state, and local agencies is essential to ensuring accountability while preventing further escalation.
During the interview, Patel also confirmed that the FBI is examining a Signal messaging group allegedly used to share real-time information about the movements of ICE agents.
“Only if you incite violence or threaten to do harm to law enforcement officials and break the law in any other way does it become an investigatory matter,” Patel said. “So this Signal chat is something that we, the FBI, are looking at.”
He stressed that the bureau is not interested in policing lawful protest or constitutionally protected activity.
Patel insisted the FBI is not targeting peaceful demonstrators, free speech, or gun ownership, pushing back against claims that the federal response is overreaching or politically motivated.
He also revealed that the FBI recently arrested four individuals accused of breaking into and vandalizing an FBI vehicle, then stealing sensitive materials from inside.
According to Patel, the stolen information was later used to issue threats against federal agents and their families.
Patel further said the bureau “led the charge” in arresting individuals accused of violating the federal FACE Act after anti-ICE protesters stormed a Minnesota church, noting that such actions carry serious federal consequences.
As investigations continue, Patel reiterated that the priority remains public safety and the protection of law enforcement officers and civilians alike — urging restraint until all the facts are known.
