2 federal agents placed on leave after appearing to make ‘untruthful’ statements about violent encounter in Minneapolis
Two Immigration Agents Dismissed from Charges in Minneapolis Incident
A federal official announced Friday that two immigration agents have been placed on administrative leave following allegations that they provided “untruthful statements” regarding a violent confrontation in Minneapolis last month. Acting Director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Todd Lyons stated that the agents could face termination and potential criminal charges once the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Minnesota finalizes its inquiry. “Falsifying testimony under oath constitutes a major federal violation,” Lyons emphasized in a statement.
Dismissal of Charges Granted
The decision to drop charges came two days after the Minnesota U.S. Attorney’s Office submitted a motion requesting the dismissal of criminal cases against Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis and Alfredo Alejandro Aljorna. The motion highlighted newly uncovered evidence that contradicts preliminary statements and an affidavit dated January 16. This evidence, deemed “materially inconsistent,” led the judge to approve the dismissal with prejudice, meaning the charges cannot be revived.
“This motion represents an extraordinary step,” said Robin Wolpert, attorney for Sosa-Celis, in an email. “While his client is relieved, he remains committed to pursuing justice and holding the ICE officer responsible for his illegal actions.”
Wolpert mentioned that Sosa-Celis will collaborate with the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. Frederick Goetz, representing Aljorna, expressed satisfaction with the dismissal, stating, “The government showed courage by doing what’s right.” He noted that the accused “felt immense pressure when confronted with false government testimony.”
Details of the Incident
According to the Department of Homeland Security, federal officers executed a “targeted traffic stop” on a Venezuelan man violating immigration laws. The individual fled, collided with a parked car, and then “resisted and violently assaulted” an officer. The DHS account claims the man was shot in the thigh after he lunged with a shovel or broomstick. The release describes the gunfire as defensive, with the agent claiming life was at risk during the incident.
The FBI agent’s affidavit, however, presents a different narrative. It claims that ICE agents ran a license plate linked to an unauthorized U.S. resident. The driver of the vehicle fled, but it was not the registered owner. Aljorna was identified as the driver, prompting a pursuit. The affidavit details a struggle where Sosa-Celis allegedly struck the officer with a broomstick, while a third man used a snow shovel. The agent then fired his weapon as the suspects retreated into an apartment.
