A criminal investigation is now underway after a senior Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) official acknowledged that two agents provided inaccurate sworn statements about a January shooting incident in Minneapolis.
The case centers on a January 14 encounter in which a Venezuelan man, Julio Sosa-Celis, was shot in the leg. Early public descriptions of the incident characterized it as a serious assault situation involving immigration officers. However, later reviews and court filings have raised significant questions about those initial accounts.
Conflicting Accounts
Initial statements from federal officials claimed that Sosa-Celis was in a vehicle with relatives when an altercation occurred and that officers were assaulted before the shooting. According to those early reports, objects such as a broom handle and a snow shovel were allegedly involved.
But an attorney representing one of the men said the situation unfolded differently. The lawyer stated that immigration agents followed a relative to a residence and that, after someone entered the home, shots were fired through a closed door, striking Sosa-Celis in the leg.
Charges Dropped
Court records show that felony assault charges against Sosa-Celis and his relative were recently dismissed. Prosecutors filed a motion acknowledging that incorrect information had been presented to the court.
The dismissal was granted “with prejudice,” meaning the charges cannot be refiled.
ICE Leadership Response
ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons said a joint review conducted by ICE and the Department of Justice examined video evidence related to the incident. According to Lyons, that review indicated that sworn testimony from two officers “appears to have included untruthful statements.”
Both officers have since been placed on administrative leave while the matter is investigated. Lyons emphasized that providing false statements is a serious matter and that the agency is treating the situation accordingly.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is also reviewing the case.
Emphasis on Accountability
A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said ICE personnel are expected to meet high standards of conduct and integrity. The spokesperson added that violations of sworn duties are taken seriously and that the agency is committed to transparency and accountability.
Meanwhile, the attorney for Sosa-Celis and his relative said his clients were relieved by the dismissal of charges and described the outcome as a step toward justice. He also called for further review of the incident.
Investigation Ongoing
Officials have not announced any final conclusions, and the investigation remains active. As with many cases involving use of force and sworn testimony, the process may take time before final determinations are made.
