Family of Alex Pretti Hires George Floyd Prosecution Lawyer in Border Patrol Shooting Case
The parents of Alex Pretti, an intensive care nurse who was fatally shot by Border Patrol officers in Minneapolis, have retained a prominent former federal prosecutor who played a key role in securing the murder conviction of police officer Derek Chauvin in the George Floyd case. This significant legal development comes as the family seeks justice following what they describe as a horrific tragedy.
Experienced Litigator Steve Schleicher Takes Case Pro Bono
Steve Schleicher, a partner at the Minneapolis law firm Maslon, has been engaged to represent Michael and Susan Pretti on a pro bono basis, according to a family spokesman. Schleicher served as a special prosecutor for Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison during the landmark 2021 trial that resulted in Chauvin's conviction for murdering George Floyd by kneeling on his neck.
Prior to entering private practice, Schleicher accumulated extensive experience as a state prosecutor and spent thirteen years in the office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota. His background includes handling complex cases involving murder, organized crime, racketeering, and federal civil rights violations. Additionally, he served as a reserve officer in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General Corps, adding to his legal credentials.
Details of the Fatal Incident and Legal Representation
Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center, was shot multiple times on Saturday while filming Border Patrol officers conducting an immigration enforcement operation. Reports indicate that Pretti was carrying a handgun for which he possessed a legal permit. Videos of the incident appear to show one officer removing the weapon before two others opened fire.
The family spokesman stated that the lawyers were retained to protect the family's interest in the aftermath of this horrific tragedy. In a separate legal move, Pretti's younger sister, Micayla Pretti, has hired attorney Anthony Cotton of Kuchler & Cotton in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to represent her interests.
Context of Recent Police-Involved Shootings in Minneapolis
Pretti's death follows the January 7th fatal shooting of Minneapolis resident Renee Good, a mother of three, by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer. Good's family has engaged the Chicago-based law firm Romanucci & Blandin, which previously represented the family of George Floyd. This pattern highlights ongoing tensions and legal battles surrounding law enforcement actions in the Minneapolis area.
The retention of Schleicher, given his pivotal role in the Chauvin prosecution, underscores the family's determination to pursue accountability through experienced legal channels familiar with high-profile civil rights cases.
