ICE Officers' Testimony About Venezuelan Man's Shooting Probed

Federal probe launched after video evidence contradicts officers' sworn statements

Feb. 13, 2026 at 10:15pm

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Federal authorities have opened a criminal investigation into whether two immigration officers lied under oath about a shooting incident in Minneapolis last month. The charges against two Venezuelan men involved in the incident were dropped after video evidence revealed the officers' sworn testimony was 'materially inconsistent' with the facts. The officers have been placed on administrative leave and could face criminal prosecution and termination.

Why it matters

This case raises serious concerns about transparency and accountability within the immigration enforcement system. The apparent discrepancies between the officers' testimony and the video evidence undermine public trust and highlight the need for robust oversight and independent investigations when use of force incidents occur.

The details

According to court documents, the two Venezuelan men, Alfredo Alejandro Aljorna and Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis, were accused of assaulting an ICE officer with a broom handle and snow shovel during a confrontation on January 14. The officer fired a single shot, striking Sosa-Celis in the thigh. However, video evidence and witness testimony contradicted the officers' account, leading to the dismissal of all charges against the men. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director Todd Lyons said the agency has launched a joint probe with the Justice Department to investigate the officers' 'untruthful statements'.

  • The incident occurred on January 14, 2026.
  • Charges against the two Venezuelan men were dismissed on February 13, 2026.
  • The criminal investigation into the officers' testimony was announced on February 13, 2026.

The players

Todd Lyons

The Director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Alfredo Alejandro Aljorna

One of the two Venezuelan men accused of assaulting an ICE officer.

Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis

One of the two Venezuelan men accused of assaulting an ICE officer.

Brian D. Clark

The immigration lawyer representing Aljorna and Sosa-Celis.

Robin M. Wolpert

The defense attorney for Sosa-Celis in the criminal case.

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What they’re saying

“Lying under oath is a serious federal offense. The men and women of ICE are entrusted with upholding the rule of law and are held to the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct. Violations of this sacred sworn oath will not be tolerated. ICE remains fully committed to transparency, accountability, and the fair enforcement of our nation's immigration laws.”

— Todd Lyons, Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director

“The charges against them were based on lies by an ICE agent who recklessly shot into their home through a closed door. They are so happy justice is being served.”

— Brian D. Clark, Immigration lawyer

“These untruthful statements had serious consequences for my client and his family. My client is a crime victim.”

— Robin M. Wolpert, Defense attorney for Sosa-Celis

What’s next

The Justice Department and ICE are actively investigating the officers' testimony, and the U.S. Attorney's Office is reviewing the case. It is unclear if the two Venezuelan men could still face deportation proceedings.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability within immigration enforcement agencies. The apparent discrepancies between the officers' sworn statements and the video evidence underscore the importance of rigorous oversight and independent investigations to ensure the fair and lawful treatment of all individuals, regardless of immigration status.