The FBI was just robbed of weapons during violent Minneapolis riots
America is getting less safe. And the deterioration is happening quicker and quicker.
Now the FBI was just robbed of weapons during the violent Minneapolis riots.
Federal authorities have made a swift arrest in connection with brazen thefts from federal property amid the chaotic unrest that erupted in Minneapolis this week.
A known member of the violent Latin Kings gang stands accused of looting an FBI vehicle—stealing body armor and weapons—during what officials describe as destructive rioting sparked by protests over recent ICE operations.
The incident unfolded Wednesday night in North Minneapolis, around 7 p.m., when reports surfaced of an assault on a federal officer.
In the ensuing disorder, multiple government vehicles were vandalized: windows smashed, hateful messages scrawled in red paint across them, and at least one FBI vehicle targeted for theft. Authorities characterize the events as outright mayhem driven by unruly agitators who turned legitimate grievances into criminal destruction of taxpayer-funded property.
Gang Member’s Alleged Theft and Violent History
Raul Gutierrez, 33, a documented member of the notorious Latin Kings gang, was taken into custody on Thursday following a joint operation by the Department of Justice and ATF agents. Federal officials allege Gutierrez exploited the chaos to steal FBI body armor and weaponry directly from the vandalized vehicle.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi highlighted the gravity of the act in a pointed statement: “He allegedly stole FBI body armor and weaponry, in addition to a long list of prior violent crimes.” She further condemned the broader environment, declaring, “This criminal is a perfect example of what our brave federal law enforcement agents are up against every day as Minnesota leadership encourages lawbreaking.”
The theft compounds concerns over escalating attacks on federal agents and property, especially as protests have repeatedly descended into violence. Bondi’s remarks underscore a narrative that lax local policies have emboldened such criminal opportunism during periods of civil unrest.
Federal Response and Pursuit of Accountability
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the arrest and emphasized ongoing efforts to hold all responsible parties accountable.
In a direct message, he stated: “One individual who allegedly stole federal government property out of an FBI vehicle in Minneapolis last night has been arrested. The suspect is a member of the Latin Kings gang with a known violent criminal history. FBI personnel are continuing to pursue other subjects involved… There will be more arrests. Again: any individual who attacks law enforcement or vandalizes federal property paid for by hardworking taxpayers will be found and arrested.”
To aid the investigation, the FBI announced a substantial reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to the recovery of the stolen items and the identification and arrest of additional perpetrators.
While specific details on the exact nature of the weapons remain undisclosed, the breach represents a serious security risk, particularly given the gang-affiliated background of the accused and his documented history of violence.
The arrest comes amid heightened national scrutiny of anti-ICE demonstrations in Minneapolis, which have included prior incidents of property damage and threats against federal personnel.
Officials portray the episode as emblematic of how unchecked disorder allows dangerous criminals to exploit public protests, ultimately endangering law enforcement and public safety. As the investigation continues, federal authorities signal zero tolerance for such assaults on agents or theft of government resources in the current climate of unrest.
