Seeking Information on Individuals Inciting Violence During First Amendment-Protected Peaceful Demonstrations

The FBI respects the rights of individuals to peacefully exercise their First Amendment rights. Our mission of protecting the American people and upholding the Constitution is dual and simultaneous, not contradictory.
 
Accordingly, we are committed to apprehending and charging violent instigators who are exploiting legitimate, peaceful protests and engaging in violations of federal law. The continued violence, potential threat to life, and destruction of property across the United States interferes with the rights and safety of First Amendment-protected peaceful demonstrators, as well as all other citizens.
 
To help us identify actors who are actively instigating violence in the wake of Mr. George Floyd’s death, the FBI is accepting tips and digital media depicting violent encounters surrounding the civil unrest that is happening throughout the country.
 

Statement from FBI Minneapolis—Seeking Public Help

New Website for Providing Pictures and Videos of Acts of Violence Now Online

The FBI’s Minneapolis Field Office is seeking the public’s help in gathering information regarding possible violations of federal law related to recent unrest experienced in the Twin Cities.

With great empathy toward the intense emotions experienced by the community, the FBI works to protect the First Amendment rights of those who wish to peacefully protest. However, when peaceful protests are corrupted by criminal acts resulting in the destruction of property and potential physical harm to citizens, the FBI is compelled to investigate and pursue charges where appropriate.

To that end, the FBI is asking citizens to provide information about violent acts associated with the protests of the last week in the Twin Cities. Among the circumstances that may give rise to a federal investigation are incidents where fires were set, incendiary devices and explosive materials were used, individuals may have incited or promoted violence, and police officers may have been assaulted.

If you have information regarding individuals involved in these types of activities, whether the individual was from Minnesota or came from another state, we ask that you provide that information to the FBI.

The FBI asks for cooperation from all witnesses who believe they have relevant digital material or tips and urges calm as investigators gather additional information.

The FBI continues its civil rights investigation into death of George Floyd. As special agents begin to investigate incidents of violence associated with the protests, the FBI remains steadfast in its thorough and comprehensive investigation of those circumstances as well.

If you witness or have witnessed unlawful violent actions, we urge you to submit any information, photos, or videos that could be relevant to the case at fbi.gov/violence.