Particle.news
Download on the App Store

ICE Officers Probed for Alleged False Testimony After Prosecutors Drop Minneapolis Assault Cases

Newly reviewed video evidence contradicted the government’s account, triggering a criminal investigation by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

Overview

  • U.S. Attorney Daniel Rosen moved to dismiss with prejudice felony assault charges against Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis and Alfredo Aljorna, citing newly discovered evidence materially inconsistent with prior allegations.
  • ICE and the Justice Department say a joint video review indicates two officers gave untruthful sworn statements; both were placed on administrative leave and could face termination and prosecution.
  • Court filings and reporting indicate video and witnesses did not support claims that an officer was attacked with a shovel and broom, contradicting DHS’s initial description of an ambush and a defensive shot.
  • The Jan. 14 encounter occurred during Operation Metro Surge in Minneapolis, a deployment already under scrutiny after other shootings where later evidence undercut initial official accounts.
  • Separately, federal prosecutors announced indictments against three people accused of sending threats to agents after protesters vandalized FBI vehicles and stolen personnel data was posted online.