Russian National Allegedly Attacks ICE Officer During Arrest
A Russian national classified as a known or suspected terrorist allegedly attempted to bite off a deportation officer’s pinky finger while being taken into custody in downtown Los Angeles.
The suspect, 35-year-old Maksim Zaitsev, was reportedly identified as a known or suspected terrorist at the time of his arrest by federal authorities at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in downtown Los Angeles.
According to officials, Zaitsev had been asked to visit the ICE office for a review of his immigration status. When he arrived, federal immigration enforcement officers were waiting for him.
As officers took Zaitsev into custody, he allegedly resisted arrest. During the struggle, Zaitsev bit one of the deportation officers, breaking the man’s finger and drawing blood, the federal prosecutor’s office said.
“The men and women of Immigration and Customs Enforcement are critical to protecting national security and public safety and upholding the rule of law,” said Acting United States Attorney Joseph T. McNally. “As alleged in the felony criminal complaint, the defendant attacked a deportation officer. He will be held accountable for his actions.”
Zaitsev has been charged with assault on a federal employee resulting in physical injury. If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison.
Federal Efforts to Address Criminal Activity by Foreign Nationals
The incident highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to address criminal activity involving foreign nationals in the Los Angeles area.
Federal prosecutors in the Central District of California, which covers Los Angeles County and surrounding regions, have been active in pursuing cases involving illegal immigration and human smuggling operations.
Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of enforcing immigration laws and ensuring that those who engage in violent or criminal behavior face legal consequences.
Recent Crackdown on Human Smuggling Operations
Recently, McNally’s office charged a group of Guatemalan human smugglers accused of illegally transporting approximately 20,000 people into the United States.
Six men were arrested in connection with the smuggling ring. Four of them could face the death penalty for their alleged roles in operations that led to multiple fatalities, including the death of a four-year-old boy.
Prosecutors allege that one of the suspects was responsible for causing a fatal car accident in Oklahoma. The crash resulted in the deaths of seven people, including the child.
