Video Exposes Lies by ICE Agents in Minneapolis Shooting

Newly unearthed footage contradicts claims made by federal immigration officials about the incident.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 2:25pm

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Video footage obtained by The New York Times has exposed lies told by two federal immigration enforcement agents about the circumstances leading up to a non-fatal shooting in Minneapolis that occurred on January 14. The video directly contradicts claims made by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials that they were attacked by assailants armed with a shovel and a broom for around three minutes before the agents opened fire and wounded one of the attackers.

Why it matters

This incident is the latest example of federal immigration authorities making false statements about confrontations with civilians, raising concerns about transparency and accountability within these agencies. It also highlights ongoing tensions between immigrant communities and law enforcement in Minneapolis.

The details

The video shows the confrontation lasting only about 12 seconds and depicts two men struggling with the agent, with no sustained attack using a shovel as ICE had claimed. Federal prosecutors initially pursued assault charges against the two Venezuelan nationals involved, but later dropped the charges after acknowledging that the ICE agents 'appear to have made untruthful statements' about the incident.

  • The incident occurred on January 14, 2026.
  • Charges were filed against the two men in February 2026.
  • The government dropped the charges in February 2026 after acknowledging the ICE agents' untruthful statements.

The players

Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis

A Venezuelan national who was shot in the leg by the ICE officers during the January confrontation.

Alfredo Aljorna

A Venezuelan national who was also involved in the confrontation with ICE agents.

Todd Lyons

The ICE Acting Director who acknowledged that two federal officers appear 'to have made untruthful statements' about the incident.

Jacob Frey

The Minneapolis Mayor who criticized the government for not properly reviewing the video footage before filing charges.

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What they’re saying

“bare due diligence would have shown that the agents were lying.”

— Jacob Frey, Minneapolis Mayor

What’s next

The government's handling of this incident and the potential consequences for the ICE agents involved are still unfolding.

The takeaway

This case highlights ongoing concerns about transparency and accountability within federal immigration enforcement agencies, as well as the need for thorough review of evidence before pursuing charges against civilians.