ICE Officers Face Criminal Probe Over Alleged False Testimony in Minneapolis Shooting

Federal prosecutors move to dismiss charges against Venezuelan nationals after video evidence contradicts officers' sworn statements

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Two Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers are under criminal investigation after federal prosecutors moved to dismiss felony assault charges against Venezuelan nationals stemming from a January shooting incident in Minneapolis. ICE Director Todd Lyons said newly reviewed video evidence suggests the officers may have made 'untruthful statements' under oath about the confrontation, during which a Venezuelan national was shot. The officers have been placed on administrative leave and could face termination and possible criminal prosecution.

Why it matters

This case raises concerns about the integrity of law enforcement testimony and the potential consequences of officers providing false information under oath. It also highlights the importance of thorough investigations and the use of video evidence to ensure accountability and transparency, especially in incidents involving the use of force by authorities.

The details

According to the report, federal prosecutors moved to dismiss charges against Alfredo Alejandro Aljorna and Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis, two Venezuelan nationals who were initially accused of attacking an ICE officer during a targeted traffic stop on January 14th. However, newly reviewed video evidence and witness testimony reportedly failed to support the officers' claims that the Venezuelan nationals had assaulted the agent with a shovel and broom. As a result, the U.S. Attorney's Office is now actively investigating the officers for potentially making 'untruthful statements' under oath.

  • On January 14th, ICE officers attempted to arrest Sosa-Celis, who allegedly fled the scene, crashed into a parked car, and ran on foot.
  • On February 14th, 2026, federal prosecutors moved to dismiss the felony assault charges against the Venezuelan nationals.

The players

Todd Lyons

ICE Director who stated that newly reviewed video evidence suggests the officers may have made 'untruthful statements' under oath.

Tricia McLaughlin

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) assistant secretary who stated that the officers have been placed on administrative leave and may face termination and potential criminal prosecution.

Alfredo Alejandro Aljorna

One of the Venezuelan nationals who was initially accused of attacking an ICE officer.

Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis

One of the Venezuelan nationals who was initially accused of attacking an ICE officer.

Daniel N. Rosen

U.S. Attorney who moved to dismiss the charges against the Venezuelan nationals, citing 'newly discovered evidence' that was 'materially inconsistent' with the allegations.

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What they’re saying

“A joint review by ICE and the Department of Justice (DOJ) of video evidence has revealed that sworn testimony provided by two separate officers appears to have made untruthful statements.”

— Tricia McLaughlin, DHS Assistant Secretary (Fox News Digital)

“Lying under oath is a serious federal offense. The U.S. Attorney's Office is actively investigating these false statements.”

— Tricia McLaughlin, DHS Assistant Secretary (Fox News Digital)

What’s next

The U.S. Attorney's Office is actively investigating the officers' alleged false statements, and the officers could face termination and potential criminal prosecution upon conclusion of the investigation.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of accountability and transparency in law enforcement, as well as the need for thorough investigations and the use of video evidence to ensure the integrity of sworn testimony. It raises concerns about the potential consequences of officers providing false information under oath and the impact on public trust in the justice system.