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Judge Fernando Rodriguez, Jr. Declines to Order Texas to Extradite ICE Agent Christian Castro to Minnesota

A federal judge declined to intervene in a politically charged extradition dispute between Texas and Minnesota over ICE agent Christian Castro. Christian Castro was arrested in Texas after allegedly shooting an immigrant in Minneapolis, leading Minnesota to seek his extradition to face felony charges. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz filed a lawsuit to keep Christian Castro in custody until the extradition is completed, arguing that Texas Governor Greg Abbott has not yet violated federal law by delaying the decision. However, Judge Fernando Rodriguez, Jr., an appointee of President Trump, ruled that he lacked the authority to force the decision, noting that Governor Abbott has not yet denied the request. Texas has been investigating whether Christian Castro technically qualifies as a fugitive. If the decision is not made soon, Christian Castro could be released as soon as Thursday due to a 90-day detention limit. While the Justice Department considers a federal prosecution, the administration announced that officials are currently in talks with local prosecutors to determine the next steps.

Sources