A federal judge has blocked Minnesota’s efforts to extradite ICE agent Christian Castro from Texas. Castro faces multiple charges following a shooting incident involving a Venezuelan migrant in Minneapolis during Operation Metro Surge.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Christian Castro, an officer with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), appeared in a Texas federal court, pleading not guilty to charges of providing false statements about the January shooting. The cases surfaced during the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement operations.
Castro was charged with six counts of making materially false statements to investigators, as revealed in unsealed federal court documents. Following his surrender to authorities, a judge released him on a $75,000 unsecured bond, requiring an ankle monitor for surveillance.
ICE officer charged after video contradicts his statements about the shooting incident.
The Incident Details
The charges are connected to the January 14 shooting of Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis, a Venezuelan who was shot in the leg. Shortly before this, Castro and another officer had attempted to stop a vehicle driven by another Venezuelan citizen, leading to a foot chase.
Castro caught up with the driver, resulting in a physical struggle. Sosa-Celis tried to assist the driver, and both retreated into a nearby apartment, locking the door. The indictment alleges that Castro fired through the door, hitting Sosa-Celis in the leg.
Federal prosecutors noted that two women and two infants were present in the apartment during the shooting.
Disputed Accounts and Video Evidence
Castro initially claimed he was attacked by several individuals wielding tools, alleging they hit him with a broom and a shovel. He insisted he was on his back when he discharged his weapon.
However, video evidence refuted these assertions, indicating that Castro was standing when he fired. Prosecutors challenged his narrative of a prolonged fight, stating the altercation lasted approximately 11 seconds rather than three minutes.
This event occurred during an intensified crackdown on illegal immigration in Minneapolis.
Extradition Challenges and Legal Implications
Separate charges are also pending against Castro in Minnesota. The Texas authorities previously arrested him in May.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s involvement complicates the case further, as he opposes the extradition of Castro to Minnesota, creating a contentious legal battle.