A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer accused of lying to the FBI about a January shooting in Minneapolis has pleaded not guilty to six federal counts of making materially false statements. Christian Castro appeared in federal court in St. Paul on Friday, facing charges stemming from the shooting of 24-year-old Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis in the leg during "Operation Metro Surge."
Prosecutors allege Castro, 52, provided a false account to investigators, claiming he was attacked with a broom and shovel before opening fire. Surveillance footage, however, reportedly contradicts his statement. Castro was released from court with an ankle monitor and instructed to travel only between Minnesota and South Texas. He is also required to report any encounters with law enforcement within 72 hours. His passport and firearms were surrendered as conditions of his release.
This plea comes after a period of legal and political maneuvering involving Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, who initially refused to sign an extradition warrant for Castro. Castro had been held in Texas custody for approximately 90 days before his release and subsequent booking in Minnesota.
Castro faces both federal and state charges related to the incident. The shooting occurred during a broader law enforcement operation in Minnesota that resulted in numerous arrests and also led to the deaths of two U.S. citizens. The operation was part of the Trump administration's efforts to increase immigration enforcement.
Federal authorities have asserted that they hold jurisdiction over cases involving ICE officers, a stance that has led to disputes with state authorities. The Associated Press contributed to this report.