Jay Clayton, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York | Department of Justice
Miguel Francisco Mora Nunez pled guilty on May 4 to possessing ammunition as an illegal alien in connection with the July 19, 2025, shooting of an off-duty Customs and Border Protection officer in Manhattan. The plea was entered before U.S. District Judge Loretta A. Preska, with sentencing scheduled for September 1.
The case is significant due to the violent nature of the crime and its impact on law enforcement personnel. Authorities said that such acts threaten both public safety and those tasked with upholding it.
"Miguel Mora Nunez shot a federal officer in the face," said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. "Gun-toting criminals threaten our families, our communities, and our law enforcement professionals, who strive every day to keep us safe. New Yorkers want criminals who use guns off the streets, and we are committed to delivering that result." Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge Michael Alfonso said: "Last year's shooting of an off-duty CBP officer was an attack on the greater law enforcement community and on the rule of law itself, and this guilty plea is a significant step toward holding the defendant accountable and making clear that such violence will not be tolerated." Frank Russo, Director of New York Field Operations for CBP added: "This guilty plea is an important step toward accountability for a brazen act of violence against one of our officers... We are grateful to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, and the NYPD for their exceptional work... Their continued partnership helps keep New York City safer and ensures that those who commit violent acts are brought to justice."
According to court documents presented during proceedings, Mora Nunez fired at approximately 11:50 p.m., striking the CBP officer in Fort Washington Park in both face and right arm; after returning fire wounded Mora Nunez twice before he fled by motorbike driven by his co-defendant.
Mora Nunez had entered—and remained—in the United States unlawfully from his native Dominican Republic; he faces one count carrying up to fifteen years' imprisonment as prescribed by Congress though final sentencing will be determined by judicial discretion.
U.S. Attorney Clayton thanked Homeland Security Investigations, Customs and Border Protection, as well as New York City Police Department for their assistance in handling this case.
