U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar said Wednesday that she plans to leave her Washington, D.C., residence following a federal search of the property, citing safety concerns after her address became public.
The Minnesota Democrat described the October 12 search during an interview with MS NOW, maintaining that she had committed no wrongdoing as federal authorities investigate potential fraud involving her family's immigration paperwork.
Omar said Homeland Security Investigations agents arrived around 6 a.m., banging on the front and back doors while her husband and 20-year-old son were inside.
Investigators presented a warrant and searched the residence for approximately four to five hours.
According to Omar, agents seized 17 items, including old phones, notebooks, a Somali language book and a vintage camera belonging to her husband, Tim Mynett.
She said investigators requested that she sign a document waiving certain congressional protections, which she declined.
Omar described the agents as generally professional, noting that they returned belongings to their places after examining them.
However, she said she was unable to contact her attorney until approximately an hour into the search.
Authorities are examining possible immigration-related offenses, including conspiracy and false statements, according to individuals familiar with the investigation.
Grand jury subpoenas have reportedly been issued to some of Omar's relatives.
Omar said the publicity surrounding the search, combined with existing death threats, made remaining at the residence untenable, particularly because her children regularly visit.
The investigation has also prompted criticism from congressional Democrats and former Justice Department officials over its proximity to the November 3 midterm elections.
Omar, a naturalized American citizen born in Somalia, arrived in the United States at age 12 after her family obtained asylum.
She became a citizen in 2000.
The congresswoman questioned President Donald Trump's denial of involvement, citing his longstanding criticism of her.
Trump has repeatedly accused Omar of wrongdoing and called for her deportation.
The Justice Department has disclosed limited information about the criminal investigation.
Omar continues to deny wrongdoing while seeking reelection in her Minneapolis-based district.