Border Patrol commander Gregory Bovino is set to leave Minneapolis and return to California’s El Centro sector, sources say, following backlash over his handling of the fatal shooting of ICU nurse Alex Pretti.

Bovino, who suggested without evidence that Pretti intended to “massacre” federal agents, faced criticism after witnesses and video contradicted his claims.

He gained notoriety for aggressive immigration enforcement in cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and New Orleans, including the use of tear gas in residential areas, which drew federal court scrutiny.

Bovino’s tactics have sparked tension within DHS, with some ICE leaders arguing that visible sweeps are overly harsh and undermine public support, CBS News has reported.

Despite controversy, the White House defended him, praising his professionalism and role in Trump’s interior immigration enforcement strategy.