Vanessa R. Waldref U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington
Richland, Washington – On February 19, 2025, a federal grand jury for the Eastern District of Washington indicted Victor Amezcua-Garcia on charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker. Amezcua-Garcia was arraigned on February 25, 2025, at the U.S. District Court in Richland.
Pasco Police reported that Amezcua-Garcia was under supervision by the Washington State Department of Corrections with an active felony warrant for escape. The Pasco Police Department had probable cause to arrest him for several armed robberies and shootings in Pasco.
On January 24, 2025, detectives from the Pasco Police Department contacted Amezcua-Garcia pretending to be rival gang members and arranged a meeting under false pretenses. Amezcua-Garcia arrived at the location with another Sureno gang member in a stolen vehicle. Both individuals were seated low and had their faces covered.
After identifying Amezcua-Garcia, law enforcement attempted a traffic stop which led to a high-speed chase through residential neighborhoods in Pasco. The pursuit ended when police executed a "pit" maneuver to stop the vehicle. Both occupants tried to flee on foot but were prevented from escaping by police vehicles.
In plain view inside the car was a loaded firearm with Sureno gang markings. A search revealed ammunition matching the weapon's caliber in Amezcua-Garcia’s pocket.
Acting U.S. Attorney Rich Barker stated, "I am honored to work with such brave federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement officers who frequently are called upon to put themselves in harm’s way to protect Eastern Washington communities." He also praised his office's attorneys and support staff for their professionalism and dedication.
The case is being investigated by multiple agencies including ATF, Washington Department of Corrections, and Pasco Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin Baunsgard is handling prosecution duties.
It is important to note that an indictment is merely an allegation; all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in court.
