Former state trooper John Nagel has criticized Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., and the Democratic Party for failing to address gang-related violence in the Twin Cities. A series of violent incidents, including a shooting at a high school football game and the discovery of over 100 shell casings in a neighborhood, have left residents fearing for their safety.
Nagel, a native of Minnesota with three decades of state trooper experience, questioned Omar’s absence in addressing the issue. He expressed disappointment that she has not taken more active measures to combat the violence affecting her area.
Nagel also targeted other Democrats in Minnesota, including Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty, accusing them of hindering law enforcement efforts. He argued that politicians promoting ‘soft on crime’ policies prevent police from effectively addressing the growing problem.
“They’re restrained by politicians,” Nagel stated. “The people want enforcement. They’re tired of this.”
According to Nagel, leniency on crime by Democrats has encouraged gang members to disregard the law. He pointed to the need for more vigorous prosecution and enforcement of existing laws.
In a recent press conference, Ramsey County Sheriff Bob Fletcher highlighted the need to hold gang members accountable, urging Moriarty’s office to pursue juvenile prosecutions more aggressively. Moriarty’s office noted that no cases related to the Bloomington incident have been submitted, but will be reviewed when received. Adam Abdihakeem Adam, 18, has been charged in connection with the football game shooting, facing serious charges.
Fletcher clarified that referring to gang members’ ethnicity as ‘East African’ is inadequate and misleading, noting that most involved are Somali. He urged for clarity without generalizing ethnicity.
Nagel emphasized that identifying gangs by ethnicity is not prejudicial. He called for existing laws to be enforced and suggested forming a gang task force to tackle the issue effectively.
Nagel will compete against Omar and Independent candidate DeVelle Jackson in the upcoming elections for Minnesota’s 5th Congressional District seat. Fox News Digital reached out to Omar, Governor Tim Walz, and Attorney General Keith Ellison for comment on the situation.