Federal Officer Assault Suspect Arrested
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino shared on Wednesday that Elpidio Reina, a 39-year-old man, has been apprehended. He was accused of throwing a rock at a federal officer during an immigration operation back in June.
This incident occurred amidst widespread protests in downtown Los Angeles, which sparked due to an uptick in the arrest of illegal immigrants in sanctuary cities. Demonstrations spread across Los Angeles and Orange counties, particularly in Paramount.
According to a press release from the FBI, on June 7, a federal vehicle was struck by a projectile while traveling along Alondra Boulevard.
Charges were filed against Reina the day after June 8 in a U.S. District Court in Los Angeles. The FBI began to identify him quickly after they released surveillance footage and images of the suspects involved.
U.S. Lawyer Bill Essay noted on X that Reina was arrested by Border Patrol agents present during the incident. He described the 39-year-old’s capture, commending the bravery of the law enforcement officer involved. He mentioned that Reina was implicated in a hazardous attack last month.
“He was taken into custody by a US Border Patrol officer whose vehicle was damaged in the attack,” Essay stated.
Further emphasizing the point, the essay remarked that Reina’s arrest serves as a warning to those who might believe they can assault federal officials and avoid consequences by hiding their identity. “Don’t touch the officers,” it said.
After charges were brought against him, Reina reportedly fled to Mexico. The FBI has circulated his images and details in both the U.S. and Mexico.
Ultimately, he was apprehended in Sinaloa, Mexico, and later surrendered to the FBI at the San Isidro entry point before being transferred to Los Angeles.
If found guilty, Reina may face a maximum of eight years in federal prison.
Bongino praised the efforts of the FBI and federal partners in a statement on X: “Great work @fbilosangeles @cbp. Those who attack American police officers can run, but they can’t hide.”
