DOJ: Duo Tried to Cause Head-On Collision with Federal Agents, Faces Federal Charges
A California couple has been arrested and charged with conspiracy to impede and injure federal officers after allegedly trying to ram Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents during an immigration warrant operation in Los Angeles, according to a press release from the U.S. Department of Justice.
The suspects, Gustavo Torres, 28, and Kiara Jaime-Flores, 34, now face up to six years in federal prison after what officials described as a deliberate, dangerous attempt to obstruct a lawful federal operation.
“These defendants are charged with knowingly and recklessly putting federal agents’ lives in danger,” said U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli. “Anyone who deliberately gets in the way of immigration officers doing their job will face criminal prosecution and the prospect of doing time in a federal prison cell.”
What Happened: Federal Operation Turns Violent
The altercation occurred on February 28, during a coordinated immigration enforcement action involving Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and U.S. Border Patrol, who were serving search and arrest warrants at four separate residences in South Los Angeles.
As agents began making arrests, a hostile crowd formed at the scene, shouting at officers and attempting to interfere. As the agents began to leave the area, the incident quickly escalated into a high-risk pursuit.
Attempted Ramming and Pursuit
According to the DOJ, Torres and Jaime-Flores — driving a Honda Fit — intentionally blocked and followed federal vehicles, placing multiple agents at risk. Key details include:
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At the intersection of 61st Street and Broadway, the pair pulled in front of a government vehicle and slammed on their brakes, prompting agents to believe a collision was being deliberately attempted.
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They then drove into oncoming traffic lanes, passing two more government vehicles in an aggressive effort to intercept and box in the agents.
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The couple then followed one of the vehicles for over two miles, weaving across traffic lanes in an attempt to stay on their tail.
Officials described their driving as aggressive, reckless, and deliberate, stating it showed clear intent to obstruct and endanger federal personnel.
Legal Ramifications: Federal Charges Filed
Torres and Jaime-Flores were formally charged with conspiracy to impede or injure federal officers under 18 U.S. Code § 372. If convicted, they each face a maximum sentence of six years in federal prison.
The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California.
This latest case underscores the growing hostility faced by federal agents during lawful immigration enforcement. As U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli made clear, obstructing federal operations — especially with acts of violence — will not be tolerated.
“This wasn’t protest. This was a targeted act of aggression against federal officers doing their job.”
The case is now before a federal judge, and the Department of Justice has signaled that additional prosecutions may follow if evidence emerges of coordinated attempts to obstruct ICE or Border Patrol operations in sanctuary cities like Los Angeles.
Law enforcement is watching — and ready to act.
