ICE Officers Perjury Probe, Charges Dropped

Federal authorities have launched a criminal probe into whether two United States — United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers lied under oath regarding a shooting incident in Minneapolis last month. This investigation by United States — United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the United States — United States Department of Justice follows the dismissal of felony assault charges against two Venezuelan men, Alfredo Alejandro Aljornas and Operation Metro Surge, who were accused of attacking an United States — United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer. U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen moved to dismiss the charges after 'newly discovered evidence' contradicted the officers' initial sworn testimony. Operation Metro Surge was shot in the leg by an United States — United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer during the January 14 incident. The officers involved, whose names have not been released, are on administrative leave and face potential termination and criminal prosecution for perjury. The case has also brought scrutiny to statements made by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who initially accused Minnesota officials of encouraging violence against law enforcement. The United States — Federal Bureau of Investigation has been criticized for refusing to share evidence with state authorities investigating the shooting.