Assault on Federal Officer by Nicaraguan Illegal Immigrant

A man from Nicaragua residing in Pittsburgh without legal status may face up to 20 years in prison after allegedly attacking a federal officer. The incident involved ramming a law enforcement vehicle, attempting to steal the officer’s firearm, and biting the officer—a confrontation that followed his unsuccessful attempt to buy a gun.

Darwin Alexander Davila Perez, 33, was indicted by a federal grand jury on charges related to the assault. The investigation began when the Department of Homeland Security learned about Davila Perez’s attempt to acquire a firearm, during which he reportedly identified himself as a U.S. citizen.

The sale was halted when the gun dealer realized he was not legally permitted to buy firearms, as federal law prohibits anyone in the U.S. without legal status from possessing or purchasing guns.

On December 17, 2025, officers from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) tried to apprehend Davila Perez for immigration violations. He refused to stop when officers turned on their emergency lights, and instead fired back at the officers.

According to the indictment, he reversed his vehicle into a law enforcement car before abandoning it and fleeing the scene. During the altercation that followed, he allegedly struck an officer in the face with his elbow, attempted to draw the officer’s service weapon, bit the officer’s arm, and hit him in the forehead using handcuffs.

The officers ordered Davila Perez to stop and show his hands in both English and Spanish, but he ignored their commands until they managed to subdue him.

The struggle resulted in several officers sustaining bites, scrapes, and bruises that required medical attention. If convicted, Davila Perez could face severe penalties, including a potential prison sentence of up to 20 years, fines up to $250,000, or both.

He remains in custody as the case proceeds.