Gerardo Tejada-Calleja, a 22-year-old from Mexico, was apprehended by the United States Border Patrol on March 2, 2025. He faces charges of Assault on a Federal Officer and Illegal Entry Into the United States.
According to the government's complaint, on the day of his arrest, a U.S. Border Patrol agent responded to reports of suspected illegal aliens near Vamori, Arizona. Upon arrival, the agent discovered Tejada-Calleja hiding under a tree. As the agent approached, Tejada-Calleja attempted to flee down a wash but was later found hiding again with another individual under a tree and brush.
During an attempt to apprehend them, Tejada-Calleja allegedly tried to grab the agent’s gun belt and radio in an effort to prevent him from calling for backup. The complaint further alleges that Tejada-Calleja wrapped his arms around the agent and brought him down to the ground. Both individuals managed to evade capture temporarily but were eventually taken into custody.
The investigation is being conducted by United States Border Patrol. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Precup from the District of Arizona in Tucson.