Photo: CHARLY TRIBALLEAU / AFP / Getty Images
An Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer, Mario Alberto Morales, turned himself in on Monday after being indicted for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in connection with a crash in Houston. The incident occurred on October 10, when Morales reportedly drove his unmarked SUV into Miguel Parra Hernandez, a construction worker, during an immigration operation, as reported by NewsNation.
Harris County prosecutors allege that Morales used his vehicle as a deadly weapon, leading to significant leg injuries for Parra Hernandez, who remains in federal custody. The indictment followed the release of body camera footage and surveillance video that prosecutors claim show Morales intentionally steering his vehicle toward Parra Hernandez. According to PBS, Morales's attorney, David Lindenmuth, argues that the incident was an accident and that the charges are politically motivated.
The case has drawn national attention due to the rarity of criminal charges against federal immigration officers. ICE has defended Morales, stating that the allegations are "reckless and false," and described the prosecution as a "political stunt" by local officials. The agency maintains that Parra Hernandez ran in front of Morales's vehicle, as reported by The Guardian.
Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare emphasized that no law enforcement officer is above the law, stating that the evidence against Morales is compelling. The charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon carries a potential prison sentence of two to 20 years if Morales is convicted. The case continues to unfold as Morales's legal team prepares to fight the charges in court.