Jacobo Eduardo Us-Real, an 18-year-old from Guatemala, was indicted on March 5 for allegedly assaulting a federal officer, according to a March 12 announcement by United States Attorney David I. Courcelle.
The case is significant as it involves an alleged attack on a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer during official duties related to immigration enforcement. Such incidents are prosecuted under Title 18, United States Code, Section 111(a)(1), which addresses assaults against federal officers.
Court documents state that the incident occurred on January 14 in Metairie, Louisiana. ICE-Enforcement and Removal Operations agents were conducting field operations when they approached a vehicle linked to an individual with a prior removal order. The occupants reportedly refused to exit and attempted to flee. After one occupant fled on foot, law enforcement engaged with the remaining two individuals; pepper spray was used during the altercation. The driver also fled but was apprehended. Us-Real was handcuffed and placed in a law enforcement vehicle. While an agent assisted him by flushing his eyes with water, he allegedly headbutted and bit her before fleeing while still handcuffed. He was later caught by ICE agents.
If convicted, Us-Real faces up to eight years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
Courcelle said that “the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.” He also praised the work of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations in this matter.
The case falls under Operation Take Back America, described as an initiative using Department of Justice resources to address illegal immigration and related criminal activity through programs such as Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhoods.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Rick Veters Jr. and Assistant U.S. Attorney Shannon Kippers are prosecuting the case.
