A federal immigration agent turned himself in Thursday after allegedly pointing a loaded gun at two people on a Twin Cities highway — and was released the same day on $100,000 bond.
What Happened?
Gregory Morgan Jr., an ICE agent from Temple Hills, Maryland, is facing two counts of second-degree assault in Hennepin County.
According to charges, on February 5, Morgan was driving an unmarked black Ford Expedition on Highway 62 near the Interstate 35W interchange.
Prosecutors say he was driving illegally on the shoulder when another car moved in front of him.
Morgan then pulled up beside the vehicle — and pointed a black handgun directly at the two occupants.
The victims had no idea he was a federal agent. They called 911.
Morgan’s Side
In a voluntary interview, Morgan said he was conducting surveillance for ICE and feared for his safety after being cut off.
He says he drew his weapon, yelled “Police, Stop,” then drove to the Whipple Federal Building near Fort Snelling.
His attorney, Ryan Pacyga, called it a “brief, frightening, and highly stressful roadway encounter” that happened in seconds during rush-hour traffic.
“This situation presented a perceived danger, and Mr. Morgan reacted in real time,” Pacyga said.
The defense also claims the complaint contains information that is “inaccurate and incomplete.”
What Prosecutors Say
Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty announced the charges in April, calling Morgan’s actions “extremely dangerous” and “well beyond” the scope of his authority.
Moriarty also noted this may be the first case of its kind nationally — where an ICE agent faces criminal assault charges for this type of incident.
As for the other driver cutting Morgan off? Moriarty said it was not a good idea, but at most amounts to a petty misdemeanor.
What’s Next
Morgan is currently out on $100,000 bond. His case is ongoing in Hennepin County.
