Prosecutor assigned to Kim Potter case resigns, notes ‘partisan politics’ as reason for departure

The prosecuting attorney in the Kim Potter case, a former Brooklyn Center officer who discharged a firearm that killed Daunte Wright last month, has resigned from his position.

Imran Ali confirmed with KSTP that he has submitted a letter of resignation to Washington County Attorney Pete Orput. His resignation will be effective as of June 17. In the letter, Ali noted the "vitriol" and "partisan politics" as reasons for his decision.

"The last several weeks have been difficult for me and my family," Ali stated, in part. "The vitriol from some and the infusion of partisan politics by many has made my job difficult to pursue justice."

Potter has been charged with second-degree manslaughter in the death of Wright. Many activists and community members have pushed for a murder charge to be added on, including a protest in front of Orput’s home after the charges were announced.

"It is with a heavy heart the office has accepted a resignation from Imran Ali. I would like to express my appreciation for all the work Imran Ali has done in both Washington County and throughout the state on behalf of the public and in particular the most vulnerable individuals in our community," Orput said about Ali’s departure.

On Friday, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison said his office would be taking over the prosecution of the case.

Below is the letter Ali sent to Orput:

Dear Pete,

I hereby resign from my position at the Washington County Attorney’s Office effective June 17, 2021. It has been an honor to serve the citizens of Washington County for the last ten years. When you recruited me to work with you, I was honored, humbled and eager to facilitate your long term vision goals for this office. You have done a remarkable job on transforming the culture of this office and protecting the citizens in our county along the way. I leave my position knowing that I have served with honor, dignity, and equality in the pursuit of justice. The last several weeks have been difficult for me and my family. The vitriol from some and the infusion of partisan politics by many has made my job difficult to pursue justice. I pray that our state heals and the extreme partisan platforms dissipate. We must return to thoughtful discourse that unites, not impulsive, irrational talking points that divide. Until then, there will be no justice or peace.

Imran Ali
Assistant Criminal Division Chief

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