A man has been indicted on federal assault charges following an incident in Los Angeles where he allegedly spat on an ICE officer during an arrest. Identified as 41-year-old Omar Pulido Bastida, the individual was previously deported and had reentered the U.S. illegally. He reportedly spat at an officer through a gated doorway while resisting arrest for unlawful presence.
Pulido Bastida is now facing up to eight years in prison under charges of assaulting a federal employee. He was arrested and will appear in court next month. Department of Justice officials emphasized that assaulting law enforcement, especially federal agents, is a serious offense and will result in robust prosecution.
This arrest is part of a wider crackdown concurrent with recent protests against immigration enforcement in Los Angeles. Officials have warned of increased penalties for offenders, including those who assault or interfere with federal agents.