by Minneapolis, MN – Federal authorities have arrested a 33-year-old alleged Latin Kings gang member accused of stealing FBI body armor and weapons from a vandalized federal vehicle during a chaotic night of unrest in north Minneapolis, officials announced.
Raul Gutierrez, identified by federal officials as a known member of the violent Latin Kings gang, was taken into custody Thursday after multiple federal vehicles were damaged and defaced during the disturbance the night before.
Federal Vehicles Targeted During Unrest
Authorities said the incident unfolded Wednesday evening after reports that a federal officer had been assaulted in north Minneapolis around 7 p.m. When law enforcement arrived at the scene, they discovered several government vehicles with smashed windows and hate-filled messages painted in red across the exteriors.
During the vandalism, officials say items were stolen from at least one FBI vehicle, including body armor and weaponry.
Suspect Identified as Gang Member
Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed Gutierrez’s arrest in a public statement, describing him as a repeat violent offender.
“He allegedly stole FBI body armor and weaponry, in addition to a long list of prior violent crimes,” Bondi said.
She added that the suspect exemplifies the dangers federal agents face while operating in areas where unrest escalates into criminal behavior.
“This criminal is a perfect example of what our brave federal law enforcement agents are up against every day,” Bondi said, criticizing what she described as leadership that enables lawbreaking.
Officials have not yet released details on the specific weapons allegedly taken or the exact charges Gutierrez is facing, noting that the investigation remains active.
FBI Offers Reward, More Arrests Expected
In the wake of the vandalism and theft, the FBI announced a $100,000 reward for information leading to the identification of suspects and the recovery of the stolen government property.
It remains unclear whether Gutierrez’s arrest was the result of a tip connected to that reward. FBI Director Kash Patel said investigators are continuing to pursue others involved in the attacks.
“FBI personnel are continuing to pursue other subjects involved,” Patel said. “There will be more arrests.”
He emphasized that anyone who attacks law enforcement or damages federal property will be held accountable.
“Any individual who attacks law enforcement or vandalizes federal property paid for by hardworking taxpayers will be found and arrested,” Patel added.
Public Safety and Federal Response
Federal officials stressed that the theft of law enforcement equipment, particularly protective gear and weapons, poses a serious public safety risk if not quickly recovered.
Authorities say efforts are ongoing to locate the stolen items and prevent them from being used in additional crimes.
Conclusion
The arrest of Raul Gutierrez marks a significant development in the investigation into the vandalism of federal vehicles during the Minneapolis unrest. As federal agencies continue tracking down additional suspects and working to recover stolen equipment, officials are signaling that those responsible will face swift and serious consequences.
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