IMPERIAL, Calif. – El Centro Sector Border Patrol agents have experienced three separate acts of violence within the past few days.
The first incident occurred on Oct. 11, at approximately 7:45 p.m., when agents assigned to bike patrol just east of the Calexico Port of Entry, encountered a man suspected of illegally entering the United States. After questioning, the man resisted arrest and physically assaulted the agent. The agent deployed his oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray, and was able to safely arrest the man.
The man was offered medical attention but declined.
The 24-year-old Mexican citizen, will be held pending charges of illegally entering the United States, and assaulting a federal agent.
The second incident occurred on Oct. 11 at approximately 10:08 p.m., when agents assigned to patrol near the Gran Plaza Outlets in Calexico, reported individuals in Mexico were throwing rocks into the United States attempting to cause harm or destruction. Agents nearby responded and the aggressors soon left the area. No arrests were made, but Mexican Officials were notified.
The third incident occurred Friday morning at approximately 9:43 a.m., when an agent patrolling the desert west of Mount Signal, encountered a man suspected of being in the United States illegally. While the agent approached, the man started to run towards Mexico. After a brief chase, the agent attempted to arrest the man but he resisted and began to assault the agent. After a brief scuffle, backup arrived and effectively took custody of the man.
The man was offered medical attention but declined.
The 41-year-old Mexican citizen was turned over the FBI for further investigation.
All agents assaulted suffered no major physical injuries.
“Our agents put their safety on the line every time they go out and patrol the border,” said Chief Patrol Agent Gloria I. Chavez. “Acts of violence like the ones committed against our agents will not deter us from our mission.”