Federal investigators reportedly searched through discarded garbage in an effort to collect DNA evidence connected to Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) and her family before executing a search warrant at the Minnesota Democrat’s Washington, D.C., residence earlier this week.
The latest revelation comes from NewsNation, which cited multiple sources familiar with the investigation and reported that federal authorities are examining allegations extending beyond previously publicized questions surrounding Omar’s immigration history.
NewsNation anchor Leland Vittert disclosed the reported evidence-gathering operation Friday, October 16, describing investigators’ efforts to obtain genetic material before Monday’s raid.
“Multiple sources have confirmed to me that federal agents went dumpster diving to get DNA from Minnesota congresswoman Ilhan Omar and her family before that blockbuster raid on her D.C. home earlier this week,” Vittert said.
The reported collection of discarded materials introduces another development in an investigation that has already involved federal searches, seized electronic devices and grand jury subpoenas targeting members of Omar’s family.
According to NewsNation, investigators believe potential DNA evidence could play an important role in the case, although the specific purpose of any genetic testing has not been publicly disclosed.
Federal investigators can sometimes collect discarded garbage without obtaining a search warrant, provided the materials have been placed somewhere without a legally recognized expectation of privacy.
Such investigative methods have been used in criminal cases to recover physical evidence, including items that could contain genetic material.
The investigation is reportedly being coordinated through the Homeland Security Investigations office in Minneapolis and includes additional members of Omar’s family.
Sources familiar with the probe suggested that investigators are pursuing matters beyond longstanding allegations that Omar married her brother to facilitate immigration benefits or misstated her birth year to obtain citizenship as a minor.
Omar has repeatedly denied allegations of immigration fraud.
The investigation reportedly originated during former President Joe Biden’s administration, when authorities examined questions involving Omar’s immigration records but did not pursue the matter further.
Portions of that inquiry were subsequently reopened and expanded under the Trump administration.
The latest developments come after federal agents executed a court-authorized search at Omar’s Washington residence Monday, October 12.
Investigators reportedly seized her cellphone, passport, computers and personal documents as part of the inquiry.
Federal authorities have also issued grand jury subpoenas involving several of her relatives.
NewsNation’s sources suggested that the investigation could eventually produce criminal indictments involving allegations broader than those previously disclosed.
Vittert described the potential charges as particularly significant, although no such indictments have been publicly announced.
Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin publicly defended the investigation Friday, describing it as a “strong case” and confirming that agents executed multiple search warrants. He also indicated that investigators expect to present evidence to a grand jury.
NewsNation further reported that more than a dozen searches occurred simultaneously, suggesting that the operation extended beyond Omar’s Washington residence.
The widening investigation comes less than three weeks before the November 3 midterm elections, when Omar is seeking reelection to Minnesota’s 5th Congressional District.
Omar has accused the Trump administration of targeting her for political reasons and has denied wrongdoing.
Her attorneys have also challenged the legality of the search, demanding the return of seized property and alleging that federal agents violated restrictions imposed by the court. The Justice Department disputes those allegations.
Despite reports suggesting potential indictments, no criminal charges against Omar have been publicly announced.
The reported DNA collection, the possibility of additional charges and the scope of the investigation remain matters of continuing federal scrutiny.
