A 30-year-old man from Venezuela, Gabriel Hurtado-Cariaco, has been charged with attempted murder after a violent confrontation with federal agents in Bellevue, Nebraska. Hurtado-Cariaco, who is an illegal immigrant and suspected member of the Tren de Aragua gang, allegedly attacked both an FBI agent and a Homeland Security Investigations agent during an attempt to arrest him.
The incident occurred when agents approached Hurtado-Cariaco. He resisted arrest and violently fought back, causing injuries to one agent by slamming his head against the ground. During the struggle, he also placed one of the agents in a chokehold, only releasing him when the other agent intervened.
After the attack, Hurtado-Cariaco fled on foot but was later apprehended at his apartment by federal agents. The injured agent was taken to the hospital for treatment.
Attorney General Pam Bondi expressed strong condemnation of the attack, stating that violence against law enforcement will not be tolerated. U.S. Attorney Lesley A. Woods praised the professionalism of the agents, noting their resilience in the face of danger.
Hurtado-Cariaco has appeared in court and is being held in custody. If convicted of the charges, he could face up to 20 years in prison. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche emphasized the commitment to protect law enforcement and ensure swift justice for violent acts against them.
