ICE San Diego arrests criminal alien after collision with 2 government vehicles, injuring federal officer

SAN DIEGO — ICE San Diego officers arrested an illegal alien from Mexico Aug. 11 who has been deported from the United States twice and has a prior conviction for driving under the influence. Records indicate the illegal alien was smuggled into the U.S. two times in October 2020 by hiding in the trunk of a vehicle that made its way through the San Ysidro Port of Entry.

During a joint operation with other federal law enforcement agencies, agents conducted a vehicle stop where the driver of the vehicle — an illegal alien — tried to flee the area while recklessly damaging two government vehicles and injuring a federal officer. The illegal alien was taken into custody shortly after the incident.

This incident is a prime example of how sanctuary cities enable criminal aliens to roam freely in our communities, undermining public safety and federal immigration enforcement efforts.

“This operation demonstrates the commitment of ERO officers to enforcing federal immigration laws and protecting public safety,” said Enforcement and Removal Operations San Diego Field Office Director Patrick Divver. “Despite the challenges encountered, our officers remain dedicated to carrying out their duties with professionalism.”

“The arrest of this individual for assaulting ICE officers underscores our unwavering commitment to safeguarding the safety of law enforcement personnel and holding offenders accountable,” said Homeland Security Investigations San Diego Special Agent in Charge Shawn Gibson. “We will not tolerate violence against law enforcement, and we are resolute in our pursuit of justice.”

Nationwide, assaults on ICE officers and agents have surged more than 1,000% over this time period last year, a trend ERO San Diego says underscores the increasing risks its personnel face during enforcement operations.

ICE continues to focus on arresting individuals who threaten public safety and national security while enforcing immigration laws under federal guidelines.

DHS encourages Americans of any age who are committed to public safety, national service and upholding the rule of law to apply today to jump-start a fulfilling career in federal law enforcement with ICE. Visit join.ice.gov to learn more.