An Arizona man is facing federal assault charges after allegedly punching a Homeland Security agent in the face during a demonstration in New Jersey.
The incident took place on the evening of June 5 outside the ICE Delaney Hall Detention Facility in Newark. According to court documents, 31-year-old Mariano Anthony Perez of Phoenix was attending a protest while Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents were assigned to crowd control. The agents were trying to keep the road clear so law enforcement vehicles could enter and exit the building.
Around 6:30 p.m., agents noticed Perez pacing near the entrance. Officials say agents gave Perez multiple commands to step back, but he did not respond. A few minutes later, Perez tried to walk past an HSI agent toward the incoming vehicles.
The agent physically pulled Perez back and told her she could not go that way. Despite the warning, Perez pushed past the agent and kept walking. When the agent followed and tried to grab hold of him, Perez suddenly turned around and punched the agent in the face with a closed fist. The blow left the agent with injuries to his upper and lower lip.
Investigators say the entire assault was captured on nearby pole cameras and in video footage posted to public social media accounts.
Perez made his first appearance in Newark federal court on June 8 before United States Magistrate Judge Leda Dunn Wettre. He is officially charged with forcibly assaulting a federal officer involving physical contact.
U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced the charges shortly after the court appearance, making it clear that attacks on federal workers will be prosecuted.
“As alleged, this defendant responded to lawful orders from federal officers by lashing out with violence and punching an officer in the face. Assaulting law enforcement officers is unacceptable. Period,” Frazer said. “Federal officers must be able to carry out their responsibilities without being subjected to violence, intimidation, or obstruction. This Office will continue to prosecute those who, as alleged here, assault officers and interfere with the lawful execution of their duties.”
HSI Newark Acting Special Agent in Charge Spiros Karabinas echoed those thoughts, pointing out the dangers of demonstrations escalating into physical altercations.
“Violent acts committed during what should be peaceful protests will not be tolerated,” Karabinas said. “Homeland Security Investigations remains resolute in ensuring that individuals who threaten or attack law enforcement face the full force of the law.”
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