Border Patrol Agent Targeted: Dominican National Arrested in Puerto Rico

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – A brazen attack on a federal officer has landed a Dominican national in federal custody. Bernis Díaz-de la Cruz, 20, is facing serious charges after allegedly attempting to run down a United States Border Patrol Agent with a vehicle on June 25, 2025, in Puerto Rico.

According to court documents, Díaz was encountered by agents while engaged in suspected illegal activity. Instead of complying with lawful commands, authorities allege Díaz rapidly accelerated his vehicle directly towards an agent standing in uniform. The agent narrowly avoided being struck, demonstrating quick thinking and reflexes. The reckless maneuver, however, resulted in a collision with another law enforcement vehicle nearby.

Díaz, who is not legally authorized to be present in the United States, is charged with violations of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 111(a) – Obstructing and Resisting a Federal Officer – and 111(b) – Assault of a Federal Officer through the use of a dangerous weapon. The incident underscores the escalating dangers faced by those sworn to protect our borders and communities.

“The Department of Justice has zero tolerance for those criminals who assault federal or local law enforcement officers,” stated United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico, W. Stephen Muldrow. “We will prosecute those who assault the brave women and men who serve and protect our communities to the fullest extent of the law.” The FBI and Border Patrol are sending a clear message: attacks on law enforcement will be met with the full force of the legal system.

Special Agent in Charge Devin J. Kowalski, of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, San Juan Field Office, added, “Assaulting a federal agent is a grave offense that risks the safety of those who serve and protect our communities…any assault against federal law enforcement will be investigated with every single resource the FBI has at its portfolio.” Chief Patrol Agent Reggie Johnson of the Ramey Sector emphasized, “Violations of U.S. sovereignty will not go unchecked.”

If convicted, Díaz faces a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney César Rivera-Díaz. This investigation is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative aimed at combating illegal immigration, dismantling cartels, and protecting communities from violent crime, streamlining efforts from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). It is important to remember that a criminal complaint is merely an allegation, and Díaz is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.