Federal Judge Blocks Extradition of ICE Agent in Shooting Case

A federal judge has halted Minnesota’s efforts to extradite Christian Castro, an ICE agent, from Texas. Castro faces legal charges related to a January shooting incident during Operation Metro Surge in Minneapolis. The shooting involved a Venezuelan migrant, and Texas Governor Greg Abbott is examining if Castro legally qualifies as a fugitive.

Christian Castro pleaded not guilty to accusations of making false statements about the shooting during the crackdown on illegal immigration under the Trump administration. Federal court documents revealed that Castro faces six charges related to “materially false” statements made to investigators. He willingly surrendered to authorities, and the court has released him on a $75,000 unsecured bond, requiring an ankle monitor.

The charges arise from a January 14 incident where Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis, a Venezuelan man, was shot in the leg. Castro and his partner were engaged in stopping a vehicle. The driver, also Venezuelan, fled, leading to a foot pursuit. During the chase, Sosa-Celis attempted to assist the driver. The two entered a nearby apartment, shutting the door behind them.

According to prosecutors, Castro fired his weapon through the door, hitting Sosa-Celis in the leg. Castro’s account of the incident described being attacked with tools like a broom and shovel. He claimed self-defense, stating he was on his back when he fired. However, video evidence contradicted his description, showing Castro standing when he shot Sosa-Celis. Officials also found discrepancies in his claim about the duration of the struggle.

This incident is part of a focused effort to address illegal immigration in Minneapolis. Castro faces ongoing charges in Minnesota, following a previous arrest in Texas. His legal situation has led to a dispute involving Governor Abbot, who opposes extraditing Castro to Minnesota.