Full Breakdown
ICE Officer Charged with False Statements Over Minnesota Shooting
9/9/2026, 4:18:17 AM
Core Event
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer Christian Castro was indicted on six counts of making false statements to FBI investigators about a January shooting in Minneapolis. The indictment alleges that Castro claimed he was attacked with a red broom and a snow shovel before firing a single round that struck Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis in the leg. Video evidence later showed no such assault occurred and that the physical struggle lasted about 11 seconds, not the three minutes Castro described. After pleading not guilty, a federal judge released Castro on a $75,000 unsecured bond and a GPS ankle monitor.
Background & Context
The incident occurred during Operation Metro Surge, a large-scale immigration enforcement sweep launched in the Twin Cities earlier this year. The operation resulted in three officer-involved shootings, two of which were fatal. ICE agents pursued a Venezuelan driver, Alfredo Aljorna, who fled into his residence with Sosa-Celis. Castro entered the home, fired through the closed front door while the occupants were inside, and then deployed tear gas before taking the men into custody.
Data & Statistics
- Charges: Six counts of false statements to federal investigators.
- Bond: $75,000 unsecured bond; GPS ankle monitor required.
- Injuries: Sosa-Celis suffered a leg wound; no other occupants were injured.
- Video evidence: Contradicted Castro’s claim of being struck with a broom and shovel and reduced the alleged struggle to roughly 11 seconds.
Official Statements & Responses
The Department of Justice (DOJ) indicated that any civil-rights charges would require consultation with its Civil Rights Division, emphasizing a “collaborative and deliberative” charging process. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty expressed concern that Castro might flee to Mexico and compared the DOJ’s handling to previous ICE shootings. The American Civil Liberties Union of Minnesota announced plans to seek damages from the federal government on behalf of Sosa-Celis.
Criticism & Opposition
- ACLU of Minnesota: Criticized the DOJ’s decision to limit charges, arguing it undermines accountability for federal officers.
- Mary Moriarty: Warned that the limited charge could set a precedent that allows ICE agents to evade more serious civil-rights liability.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Federal prosecutors initially prepared civil-rights charges under color of law, similar to those filed in the George Floyd case, but senior DOJ officials redirected the case to false-statement charges. Assistant U.S. attorney Matthew Evans, who objected to the downgrade, was subsequently removed from the case, and the DOJ is now investigating whether he violated any laws. A person familiar with the investigation reported that the civil-rights probe remains open and that additional charges could still be filed, but no further details have been released.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is being directed by the Main Justice and the US Attorney,” — Matthew Evans, the official
- “His life has been that of public service to our country and to our nation, either through its military or protecting its borders and enforcing its laws,” — David A. Lindenmuth
What’s Next
Castro is scheduled to appear in federal court in Minnesota later this month. The DOJ’s civil-rights investigation continues, and state officials have indicated they may pursue additional charges or civil remedies.
