Bar Association of San Francisco Statement on Recent Killings in Minnesota

SAN FRANCISCO, CA –The Bar Association of San Francisco (BASF) calls for justice, accountability, and transparency in the wake of the killings of Renée Nicole Good on January 7, 2026, and Alex Jeffrey Pretti on January 25, 2026, the ongoing arrest of young children and others without any apparent due process, and reports of federal enforcement actions in Minneapolis and St. Paul that raise extremely serious concerns regarding respect for the most basic constitutional rights.

BASF understands that Ms. Good was acting as a legal observer—a role that is essential to our constitutional system. Legal observers exercise their First Amendment rights to document law enforcement activity, ensuring accountability and protecting civil liberties. When those who serve this vital function face violence or intimidation, it chills the exercise of rights that belong to all Americans.

Mr. Pretti was also exercising his constitutional right to observe and document federal enforcement activity. When community members who lawfully witness enforcement operations are met with lethal force, it sends a chilling message to all who would exercise their First Amendment rights and who seek to protect their communities. Like Ms. Good’s death, Mr. Pretti’s killing underscores the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and adherence to constitutional standards in federal enforcement operations.

As an organization committed to the rule of law and equal justice for all, BASF calls for thorough, transparent, and independent investigations into both killings and into reports that enforcement activities have been conducted without adequate judicial oversight, due process protections, or adherence to established legal standards. Federal officials and agents are not above the law.

BASF also urges all levels of government to ensure that enforcement actions do not deter community members from engaging in civil discourse, seeking assistance from government officials, or appearing in court. The integrity of our justice system depends on public trust and participation.

About The Bar Association of San Francisco

The Bar Association of San Francisco (BASF) is a nonprofit voluntary membership organization of attorneys, law students, and legal professionals in the Bay Area. Founded in 1872, BASF is dedicated to promoting fairness, equality, and integrity in the legal system and to serving the community.

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