Nissan Assault: Colorado Man Gets 9+ Years for Attacking ATF Agent

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO – Dallas Michael Theiss, 24, will spend the next nine years and two months of his life behind bars after being sentenced for a brazen assault on a federal officer. The incident, which unfolded at a 7-Eleven convenience store in April 2021, saw Theiss attempt to run down an ATF Special Agent with his vehicle.

According to court documents, ATF agents and Colorado Springs police were moving to arrest Theiss when he slammed his blue Nissan Sedan into reverse, attempting to flee. Boxed in by law enforcement, Theiss then accelerated towards the agent, mounting the curb and driving onto the sidewalk. The agent, caught in the path of the speeding vehicle, was forced to discharge his firearm, striking the windshield and driver’s side window in a desperate attempt to avoid being hit.

Despite the gunfire, Theiss managed to strike the agent in the leg before roaring away. A short pursuit followed, culminating in a two-hour standoff at a Colorado Springs residence. Upon securing the vehicle, investigators discovered two firearms inside. Theiss ultimately surrendered and was taken into custody.

“This case demonstrates the kind of heroic acts that federal law enforcement officers undertake every day to keep us safe,” stated Acting United States Attorney Matt Kirsch. “Taking violent offenders off the street is a dangerous business, and we are grateful no one was killed in this incident.” The sentiment was echoed by ATF Special Agent in Charge David Booth, who praised the agent’s “extraordinary bravery and professionalism.”

U.S. District Court Judge Philip A. Brimmer handed down the 110-month sentence on November 19, 2021, followed by three years of supervised release. Theiss’s actions weren’t just reckless; they were a direct threat to a law enforcement officer doing his job. The length of the sentence reflects the severity of the crime and the potential for far greater harm.

The investigation was a joint effort between the ATF and the Colorado Springs Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Kelly Churnet prosecuted the case (Case No. 21-cr-0149). This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by those sworn to uphold the law, and the consequences for those who choose to violently resist.