Minnesota State Patrol trooper, Ryan Londregan, has been charged with second-degree murder, first-degree assault, and second-degree manslaughter in the shooting death of Ricky Cobb II during a traffic stop in Minneapolis last year. The charges were announced at a news conference by Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty, who stated that the use of deadly force by state troopers is only justified when there is a specific identified threat of great bodily harm or death, which was not present in this case.

The incident occurred on July 31, when Cobb was pulled over on Interstate 94 by three troopers for not having taillights turned on at night. Upon running his information, the troopers discovered that Cobb had violated a protective order in Ramsey County. Body camera footage revealed that Cobb, who was Black, refused to exit his vehicle after being informed that he was not under arrest. Londregan, who is White, along with another trooper, attempted to physically remove Cobb from the car, and the vehicle appeared to move forward slowly.

According to the criminal complaint, Londregan fired two shots at Cobb, after which the vehicle accelerated and crashed into a concrete barrier about a quarter-mile away. Tragically, Cobb was pronounced dead at the scene. The charges against Londregan have sparked controversy, with his attorney, Chris Madel, criticizing Hennepin County Attorney Moriarty for her handling of the case. Madel accused Moriarty of providing lenient deals to murderers and kidnappers in the past and claimed that she was "out of control."

The Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association (MPPOA) also came to Londregan's defense, stating that they would vigorously support the trooper, who they believe has been unjustly charged while acting within his legal responsibilities. MPPOA Executive Director Brian Peters issued a statement expressing their stance.

Londregan is expected to make his first court appearance in the coming weeks, and Moriarty has stated that they will recommend his release on his own recognizance, as requesting bail would not align with Minnesota's laws on bail and the risk assessment used by Hennepin County.

The case has further fueled the ongoing debate surrounding police use of force and racial bias in law enforcement. The shooting of Ricky Cobb II has prompted calls for justice and an end to what some perceive as open season on law enforcement. As the trial unfolds, it will undoubtedly continue to draw attention and spark discussions about police accountability and the need for reform.