Second Suspect Arrested in Shooting of CBP Officer
The second suspect arrested in connection with the shooting of a U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer in New York City over the weekend has a significant criminal record, according to officials. Christian Aibar Velour, originally from the Dominican Republic, was found to be in the United States illegally after being enrolled on June 19, 2022, and subsequently placed on interim parole while his immigration hearings were postponed.
Since then, Velour is believed to have committed multiple offenses in New York City, including two counts of reckless endangerment in May 2023, as well as charges for grand larceny and petty theft, which are serious felony offenses, prior to his arrests in March and April of 2024.
Despite those offenses, a New York City Department of Corrections decision allowed Velour to return to the streets of NYC even with pending issues involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement. There’s a sense of frustration surrounding what some describe as a lack of safety measures in place.
Former South Dakota Governor Christie Noem has publicly criticized the policies that set the stage for such situations, particularly regarding immigrants who have been implicated in violent crimes against law enforcement officers.
Velour, along with his accomplice Miguel Francisco Mora Nunez, is now facing federal charges linked to the shooting incident that occurred at Fort Washington Park.
The incident reportedly took place during an attempted robbery. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tish noted that Velour was the one driving the scooter involved when the two approached the victims, brandishing a firearm.
Velour has had multiple previous arrests, with officials stating he entered the country illegally through Texas in 2022. He had reportedly been involved in other criminal activities, including a violent robbery in Massachusetts earlier this year.
As investigations continue, authorities aim to clarify the situation—and ensure accountability for those involved in such crimes.
