A grand jury in Texas indicted ICE agent Mario Alberto Morales, 33, on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon after he allegedly rammed Miguel Parra Hernandez, 48, a Mexican construction worker, during a chase in Houston. Surveillance footage contradicts the agent’s claim that the victim ran in front of the vehicle, showing the ICE car veering around a corner and hitting Parra Hernandez from behind. The victim remains in ICE custody at a rehabilitation center recovering from severe leg injuries.
This marks the first time a federal agent has faced state charges in Texas under President Trump’s immigration crackdown. Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare stated the evidence is clear and aims to send a message to ICE officers. The incident occurred on Oct. 10 when Parra Hernandez was driving to work and was pursued by agents in unmarked vehicles.
ICE maintains the allegations are false and that its agents uphold high standards. Prosecutors note that holding federal agents accountable is legally challenging due to the Supremacy Clause, but Texas officials believe the video and 911 calls provide undeniable proof of misconduct.
Source: New York Times Top Stories · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing