ATF Shooting: Ex-Agent Analyzes Alex Pretti Killing & Deadly Force Protocol

A recently released government report detailing the killing of Alex Pretti has prompted scrutiny of protocols surrounding the use of deadly force by federal agents. Scott Sweetow, a former ATF special agent in charge in St. Paul and a firearms instructor, is analyzing the new details contained within the report.

Key Findings from the Report

The report makes no mention of Pretti brandishing a firearm prior to the shooting. Slowed-down video analysis of the incident indicates that another agent had already secured possession of Pretti’s gun before the shooting occurred.

Did You Know? Following an incident involving the use of deadly force, agents should be placed on leave for a minimum of three days, and often for a longer period.

Potential Complications

Sweetow highlighted a critical concern: the potential for miscommunication regarding whether fellow officers are aware a suspect has been disarmed. “Then that leaves a problem of whether your fellow officers knows that person has been disarmed or if they’re reacting to the last thing they heard. It also creates a chance that there’s going to be a use of deadly force,” he stated.

Post-Incident Procedures

According to Sweetow, standard procedure following a use of deadly force involves a period of leave for the involved agents. This is intended to protect both the agency and the public. “That’s both to protect the agency, to protect the person and frankly to protect the public from someone who may really be rattled when they’re out there because they’ve had to use deadly force and you don’t want them back out there engaging in a situation where they could use deadly force again,” Sweetow explained.

Expert Insight: The extended leave period following a use of deadly force underscores the significant psychological impact such events can have on agents, and the importance of ensuring they are fully prepared before returning to duty.

During a federal investigation, agents are required to surrender their firearms, potentially receiving a new weapon, and provide detailed statements. These statements often focus on sensory details, including what the agent saw, heard, felt, and smelled during the incident. An agent’s statement, Sweetow explained, “could be as simple as, ‘This is what I saw, heard, felt, smelled. This is what I perceived. I drew my weapon, I fired it. I don’t know how many rounds.'”

The Investigation Process

Evidence collection is paramount in these investigations. This includes securing all firearms involved – including Pretti’s gun, which was found secured in an agent’s vehicle – and analyzing bullets and casings. An autopsy will also be a critical component of the investigation.

Sweetow also recommends involving local or state agencies in the investigation, believing it can foster greater public trust, regardless of the extent of their involvement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the report say about Pretti’s actions before the shooting?

The report contains no mention of Pretti brandishing his gun before the shooting.

What happens to agents’ firearms during a federal investigation?

During a federal investigation, agents’ guns are surrendered, and they may be issued a new one.

What kind of statements are agents expected to provide?

Agents are expected to provide statements detailing everything they saw, heard, felt, smelled, and perceived during the incident.

How might the inclusion of local agencies impact public perception of the investigation?