Federal Agent Pleaded Not Guilty in Minneapolis Shooting
Christian Castro faces federal charges for allegedly lying to the FBI following a January shooting incident.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Law Enforcement
Federal agent Christian Castro has pleaded not guilty to six counts of lying to the FBI regarding a shooting that occurred on January 14. A judge set his federal bond at $75,000 following his arrest in downtown Minneapolis.
Why it matters
The case follows the dismissal of charges against two men initially accused of assaulting Castro, after surveillance footage contradicted the Department of Homeland Security's original claims. The proceedings are now set to determine the accuracy of statements made during the federal investigation.
Christian Castro was released after posting $200,000 in state bail and meeting a $75,000 federal bond condition. The court has mandated a 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew and a mental health evaluation as part of his ongoing federal supervision.
The players
Christian Castro
He is a 52-year-old federal agent currently facing six federal counts of lying to the FBI.
Julio Sosa-Celis
He is the individual who was shot and injured by Castro during a January 2026 incident.
Alfredo Aljorna
He was involved in the car chase incident that preceded the shooting involving Castro.
Elizabeth Cowan Wright
She is the federal judge presiding over the court proceedings and bond conditions for Castro.
The details
During the January 14 incident, Castro allegedly fired a weapon through a closed door while pursuing Julio Sosa-Celis and Alfredo Aljorna. The federal charges stem from accusations that he provided false information to federal investigators regarding these events.
Timeline
Jan. 14, 2026: Christian Castro shot and injured Julio Sosa-Celis.
Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2026: Castro was arrested in downtown Minneapolis.
Thursday, Sept. 17, 2026: Castro posted state bail and was released.
Friday, Sept. 18, 2026: Castro pleaded not guilty in federal court.
Oct. 2, 2026: Deadline for submitting case schedule and complex designation.
Legal Context
This case highlights the growing intersection between local police investigations and federal oversight when law enforcement personnel are involved in criminal proceedings. It follows a pattern where surveillance evidence has frequently altered the trajectory of cases involving allegations of assault against federal agents.
The case has resulted in the dropping of charges against two local men, shifting the focus of the investigation toward the conduct of the federal agent involved. Residents may see continued legal activity as the court determines the timeline for the upcoming federal trial.
The takeaway
The case serves as a reminder of how digital surveillance can fundamentally alter the outcome of legal investigations involving law enforcement. Ongoing judicial oversight remains a critical factor in ensuring accountability when agency narratives are challenged by physical evidence.
What happens next
Parties are required to submit a motion to designate the case as complex and provide a proposed schedule to the court by October 2, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on legal proceedings, visit the Law Enforcement section.
