Today, a Honduran national named Jose Melgar-Rivas, aged 34, was charged with assaulting and resisting a federal officer in Oklahoma City. The announcement came from U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
The complaint details an incident on July 15, 2025, where officers from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) stopped a vehicle driven by Melgar-Rivas on NW 23rd Street in Oklahoma City. Melgar-Rivas was identified as an ICE fugitive. When asked to exit the vehicle, he allegedly resisted, leading to a struggle with officers. During this altercation, Melgar-Rivas reportedly drove off with an ICE officer trapped in the door of the vehicle. The officer sustained injuries but managed to free himself as the vehicle accelerated away. Melgar-Rivas was apprehended 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 interfering with law enforcement would be held accountable.
Travis Pickard from Homeland Security Investigations stated: “Those who assault federal officers will face swift and stern accountability for their actions.” FBI Oklahoma City Acting Special Agent Joe Ogden echoed these sentiments: “Assaults on federal agents will not be tolerated by the FBI.”
If convicted, Melgar-Rivas could face up to 20 years in prison and fines reaching $250,000. He appeared today in U.S. District Court in Oklahoma City and is being detained pending further proceedings.
Authorities remind the public that charges are allegations until proven beyond reasonable doubt.
The investigation involved several agencies including Homeland Security Investigations, FBI Oklahoma City Field Office, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations, Oklahoma City Police Department, and assistance from U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany Edgmon is prosecuting.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America by the Department of Justice aimed at combating illegal immigration and transnational criminal organizations.
For more information refer to public filings.
