Feds Probe ICE Officers’ Alleged Lies in Minneapolis Shooting of Venezuelan Man
Federal authorities have initiated a criminal investigation into two Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers regarding a shooting incident involving a Venezuelan man in Minneapolis. This probe follows revelations that the officers may have provided false testimonies under oath.
Overview of the Incident
The investigation stems from a January 14 shooting where Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis was shot in the leg by an immigration officer while attempting to evade arrest. Alongside him was another Venezuelan man, Alfredo Alejandro Aljorna.
Details of the Shooting
According to reports, the incident began when ICE officers attempted a traffic stop on Aljorna’s vehicle. Following a crash, he fled on foot towards his apartment, where an officer pursued him. The ICE officer’s testimony claimed that Aljorna aggressively resisted arrest and was aided by Sosa-Celis, who allegedly attacked the officer with a snow shovel and a broom handle. However, video evidence seems to contradict this account.
Investigation Announcements
On a recent Friday, ICE Director Todd Lyons confirmed that video evidence indicates discrepancies in the officers’ accounts of the shooting. Consequently, they have been placed on administrative leave while the investigation remains ongoing. Neglecting the truth under oath is a serious offense, which could lead to both termination from employment and potential criminal charges for the involved officers.
Dismissing the Charges
In a significant development, U.S. District Court Judge Paul A. Magnuson dismissed all charges against Sosa-Celis and Aljorna due to “newly discovered evidence” that contradicted earlier allegations. The dismissal was issued with prejudice, preventing the charges from being reinstated.
Legal Perspectives
- The attorney representing Sosa-Celis and Aljorna expressed elation over the dismissal, stating that the initial charges were based on falsehoods.
- Both men were at risk of severe penal consequences if convicted, potentially facing years in federal prison.
Additionally, there are concerns regarding the possible deportation of the two men, as the legal aftermath continues to unfold.
Political Reactions
Following the shooting, a political backlash occurred. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem publicly criticized Minnesota’s Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey for allegedly fostering an environment against law enforcement. She claimed the incident was an attempted murder of federal agents.
Ongoing Investigations
While the federal investigation into the ICE officers progresses, state authorities are also conducting inquiries into the shooting. Notably, the FBI has not disclosed the names of the officers involved, nor provided evidence related to the case.
| Name | Charge Status | Incident Details |
|---|---|---|
| Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis | Dropped | Shot in the leg by ICE officer |
| Alfredo Alejandro Aljorna | Dropped | Fled from ICE officers |
The fate of the ICE officers remains uncertain as investigations continue, with the possibility of significant legal repercussions hanging over their heads.
Conclusion
This case highlights the critical issues surrounding the actions of federal immigration officers and the importance of accountability in law enforcement. As the inquiries unfold, all eyes remain on the ongoing developments in this controversial Minneapolis shooting. For further updates, stay tuned to Filmogaz.com.
