An Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent accused of intentionally striking a man with his SUV during an immigration operation in west Harris County is expected to surrender to authorities Monday morning.
Mario Alberto Morales is expected to turn himself in between 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. at the 488th District Court, according to his attorney.
Morales was indicted Friday by a Harris County grand jury on a charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in connection with an October 10 incident that left Miguel Parra Hernandez seriously injured.
Body-camera video captures moments before crash
Newly released body-camera video shows the moments leading up to the incident near Clay Road and Highway 6.
In the recording, an agent can be heard saying, “We got a runner,” as Parra Hernandez runs from immigration officers.
Moments later, prosecutors allege Morales intentionally struck Parra Hernandez with his SUV.
Parra Hernandez suffered serious injuries to his leg that required surgery.
Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare said the evidence, including body-camera and surveillance video, supports the criminal charge against Morales.
“I hope that also sends a loud and clear message to every ICE officer who feels that they have a free pass to terrorize our streets,” Teare said.
ICE agent’s attorney disputes allegations
Morales’ attorney maintains that the collision was an accident and that his client never intended to strike Parra Hernandez.
Morales faces a second-degree felony charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. If convicted, he could face between two and 20 years in prison.
Morales is expected to surrender at the Harris County Criminal Courthouse Monday morning.
His attorney confirmed the surrender could happen as early as 8:30 a.m. and as late as 10 a.m.
The court proceedings could provide additional details about his bond and the next steps in the criminal case.
