Federal Probe Launched as ICE Agents Face Scrutiny Over Minneapolis Shooting
Minneapolis, MN – A criminal investigation is underway to determine if two Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents provided false testimony regarding a shooting involving a Venezuelan man last month. The probe, announced Friday by ICE Director Todd Lyons, comes after video evidence surfaced suggesting discrepancies in the agents’ accounts of the January incident.
Charges Dropped Against Shooting Victims
The investigation coincides with a federal judge’s decision to dismiss all charges against Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis, who was shot in the leg by an ICE agent, and Alfredo Alejandro Aljorna. Both men had been accused of assaulting an ICE officer with a snow shovel and broom handle during an encounter in Minneapolis. The dismissal occurred after federal prosecutor Daniel N. Rosen stated that newly discovered evidence was “materially inconsistent” with previous government claims.
Agents on Leave, Potential Consequences
Both agents involved have been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. Lyons stated that the agents could face termination and potential criminal charges if found to have lied under oath. “Lying under oath is a serious federal crime,” he emphasized. The Department of Justice is actively investigating the case.
Escalating Concerns Over ICE Conduct
This case adds to a growing number of high-profile incidents where the actions of federal immigration agents have come under scrutiny. Previous instances have involved questions surrounding the apply of force and the accuracy of statements made to justify those actions. Dozens of serious crime cases against protestors alleging aggression towards federal agents have also been dropped.
Discrepancies in Testimony
During a January 21st court hearing, the ICE agent’s account of the events leading up to the shooting differed significantly from the testimonies of Sosa-Celis, Aljorna, and three witnesses. Video evidence also failed to corroborate the agent’s claim of being attacked with a broom, and shovel. Aljorna and Sosa-Celis both denied assaulting the agent with those items.
Political Fallout and Calls for Transparency
The incident drew criticism from some political figures. Following the shooting, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem accused Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey of encouraging obstruction and aggression against law enforcement. Though, the Department of Homeland Security has not responded to requests for comment regarding Noem’s statements.
Related Investigation and Witness Protection Concerns
A third Venezuelan man, Gabriel Alejandro Hernández Ledezma, who was present at the scene, was briefly detained and transferred to a detention center in Texas. His attorney alleges this was done to prevent him from providing testimony that could undermine the government’s case and aid a state investigation in Minnesota. He has since been released.
FAQ
Q: What are the potential consequences for the ICE agents?
A: They could face termination from their jobs and criminal charges if found to have lied under oath.
Q: What led to the charges being dropped against Sosa-Celis and Aljorna?
A: Newly discovered evidence was found to be inconsistent with the government’s previous claims.
Q: Is there an ongoing investigation into the shooting itself?
A: Yes, state authorities have opened their own criminal investigation, but the FBI has been reluctant to share evidence.
Q: What is the status of Gabriel Alejandro Hernández Ledezma?
A: He was released from ICE custody after a judge ordered his release.
Did you know? Lying under oath is a federal offense that can carry significant penalties, including imprisonment.
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