The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has filed a criminal complaint against Bernis Díaz de la Cruz, an individual from the Dominican Republic, following an incident on June 25 in which he allegedly assaulted a US Border Patrol Agent with a vehicle. The initial hearing is set to take place today at the US District Court in San Juan.
Díaz de la Cruz faces charges under Title 18, United States Code, Sections 111(a) and 111(b), which pertain to obstructing and resisting a federal officer and assaulting a federal officer using a dangerous weapon.
The confrontation occurred when Ramey Sector Border Patrol Agents encountered Díaz engaged in suspected illegal activity inside his vehicle. According to reports, instead of complying with commands from the agents, Díaz accelerated his vehicle toward one of them. The agent managed to avoid being struck but collided with another law enforcement vehicle.
Reggie Johnson, Chief Patrol Agent for Ramey Sector, stated: “Thanks to the vigilance our agents and coordination with our federal partners, the defendant will now face justice under federal immigration law, reinforcing that violations of U.S. sovereignty will not go unchecked.”
Special Agent in Charge Devin J. Kowalski of the FBI commented on the severity of assaulting federal agents: “Assaulting a federal agent is a grave offense that risks the safety of those who serve and protect our communities... any assault against federal law enforcement will be investigated with every single resource the FBI has it its portfolio.”
The investigation is being handled by the FBI San Juan Field Office and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for Puerto Rico. It should be noted that criminal complaints are merely charges; defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in court.
The Ramey Sector covers Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands and is unique as it operates outside continental US borders. It manages around 6,000 square miles including territorial waters.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), America's largest law enforcement organization, plays a crucial role in national security through various means including innovation and collaboration.
