A federal judge in Texas has blocked Minnesota’s efforts to extradite U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent Christian Castro. Castro faces charges related to a January shooting incident involving a Venezuelan migrant during Operation Metro Surge in Minneapolis. Texas Governor Greg Abbott is examining whether Castro qualifies legally as a fugitive.
Castro, who appeared in a federal court in Texas, pleaded not guilty to six charges. These charges include making false statements regarding the shooting incident. According to unsealed federal court documents, Castro surrendered to authorities and was released on a $75,000 unsecured bond. He must wear an ankle monitor.
DOJ CHARGES ICE OFFICER WITH LYING TO INVESTIGATORS FOLLOWING MINNEAPOLIS SHOOTING OF VENEZUELAN MAN
The shooting incident occurred on January 14 when Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis, a Venezuelan, was shot in the leg. Castro and his partner attempted to stop a vehicle, leading to a chase. The driver and Sosa-Celis fled into an apartment, where Castro discharged his weapon, hitting Sosa-Celis. Prosecutors noted that two women and two children were in the apartment during the shooting.
Castro allegedly claimed he was attacked by multiple individuals using tools and that he fired while on his back. However, video evidence contradicted these claims. Federal prosecutors stated that Castro was standing when he shot, and the struggle lasted only 11 seconds, not three minutes as claimed.
This incident took place during a targeted effort to curb illegal immigration in Minneapolis. Castro faces additional charges in Minnesota and was initially arrested in Texas in May. The legal complexities have resulted in a conflict involving Governor Abbott, who has not agreed to extradite Castro to Minnesota.
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