Jack Rice on KARE 11: Rule of Law, Body Cameras, and the Second Amendment After Fatal ICE Shooting

Jack Rice, a prominent criminal defense attorney appeared on NBC News affiliate KARE 11 in Minneapolis to discuss the fatal ICE shooting of Alex Pretti — a case that has raised serious questions about accountability, constitutional rights, and whether the rule of law is being applied evenly when federal agents use deadly force.

A former prosecutor and former CIA Case Officer, Rice said he was “horrified” after reviewing multiple cellphone videos of the incident circulating online.

“I’m horrified, I’m horrified by what I’m seeing,” Rice said.

Calls for Accountability and an Independent Investigation

Rice emphasized that any fatal shooting by law enforcement — especially federal agents — must be thoroughly and transparently investigated. He noted growing concerns that the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) may have been excluded from investigating what he described as another ICE-involved homicide in Minnesota.

While acknowledging that federal agencies may attempt to control the scene and the evidence, Rice stressed that state authorities are not powerless.

“You can try to exclude a lot of evidence, but what we have are cellphones — multiple, multiple cellphones from multiple different designations,” Rice explained. “With a cellphone, everyone is an investigative reporter.”

According to Rice, the widespread availability of video evidence makes it far more difficult for any agency to limit scrutiny or avoid accountability.

Body Cameras, Vests, and the Use of Deadly Force

Rice also raised concerns about the conduct of federal agents at the scene, including questions surrounding tactical gear, visibility, and the use of deadly force. He underscored that the presence of a firearm alone does not justify a shooting — a principle central to both constitutional law and police training.

“You can’t shoot somebody simply because they have a weapon,” Rice said. “It simply is a bright line that the feds crossed.”

The Second Amendment and Lawful Gun Ownership

One of the most contentious issues in the case has been whether Alex Pretti’s lawful possession of a firearm justified federal action. Rice made clear that it does not.

“He was armed. He had a license to carry,” Rice said. “Lawful gun ownership and possession alone is not justification for deadly force.”

Rice directly disputed claims suggesting it was illegal for Pretti to be armed at a protest, explaining that the Second Amendment protects the right to carry a firearm, provided the individual does not brandish or threaten others.

“Showing up to a protest with a gun is a constitutionally protected right,” Rice said. “He had the right to have a weapon. He doesn’t have the right to brandish it. He doesn’t have the right to threaten anybody — that would’ve been a problem — but he didn’t, based upon all of the video that’s out there.”

The Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus echoed that position, issuing a statement affirming that gun rights do not disappear at protests or public demonstrations.

Why the Rule of Law Matters

For Rice, the core issue is not politics — it is the rule of law.

“When federal agents use lethal force,” Rice has said repeatedly, “they don’t get a pass. The Constitution applies to everyone.”

As the investigation continues and no charges have yet been filed, Rice says transparency and accountability remain essential — not only for the family of Alex Pretti, but for public trust in the justice system itself.

Jack Rice Defense will continue monitoring developments in this case and advocating for constitutional protections, due process, and equal application of the law — regardless of who is wearing the badge.

About Jack Rice

Jack Rice is a nationally recognized criminal defense attorney, legal analyst, and former prosecutor. He appears regularly on national and regional media outlets including NBC News affiliates, CNN, and other major networks to provide analysis on constitutional law, use of force, and high-profile criminal cases. Based in Minnesota, Rice brings decades of courtroom experience to his work, advocating for due process, civil liberties, and equal application of the law.