Today, Jose Melgar-Rivas, a 34-year-old Honduran national, was charged with assaulting, resisting, or impeding a federal officer resulting in bodily injury. The announcement came from U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
The complaint states that on July 15, 2025, officers from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) stopped a vehicle driven by Melgar-Rivas on NW 23rd Street in Oklahoma City. Identified as an ICE fugitive, Melgar-Rivas allegedly refused to exit the vehicle when asked by officers. A struggle ensued during which he reportedly put the vehicle into drive and fled the scene. An ICE officer became trapped in the door of the moving vehicle and sustained injuries before freeing himself. Melgar-Rivas was arrested hours later.
U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester emphasized the importance of law enforcement safety: “Ensuring the safety of law enforcement personnel in executing their lawful duties is paramount, and it remains a top priority of the Justice Department.” He added that those who interfere with law enforcement will be held accountable.
Travis Pickard, Homeland Security Investigations Dallas Special Agent in Charge over North Texas and Oklahoma stated: “Those who assault federal officers will face swift and stern accountability for their actions.”
FBI Oklahoma City Acting Special Agent in Charge Joe Ogden said: “Assaults on federal agents will not be tolerated by the FBI.”
If convicted, Melgar-Rivas could face up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000. He appeared today in U.S. District Court in Oklahoma City where he was ordered detained pending further proceedings.
The public is reminded that this charge is merely an allegation; Melgar-Rivas is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
This case results from investigations by Homeland Security Investigations, FBI Oklahoma City Field Office, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations, Oklahoma City Police Department with help from U.S Marshals Service. Assistant U.S Attorney Tiffany Edgmon prosecutes this case.
It forms part of Operation Take Back America—a nationwide initiative by Department of Justice against illegal immigration and transnational criminal organizations while protecting communities from violent crime perpetrators.
For more information refer to public filings.
