Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare announced that his office is prepared to prosecute federal immigration agents if criminal actions are found in the shooting of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, a Mexican immigrant, by an ICE agent. The shooting took place on July 7, and Teare’s office has already issued numerous subpoenas as part of an investigation.
Teare emphasized the need for an independent and transparent review, stating that the community deserves it. He mentioned that criminal charges would be filed against those responsible, regardless of their status as federal agents or civilians.
The Department of Homeland Security claimed Salgado Araujo used his van as a weapon during a traffic stop, which led to the shooting. However, Salgado Araujo’s family disputes this narrative and describes him as a devoted father who had lived in the U.S. for over 30 years.
Following this incident, another ICE officer shot a driver in Maine. The FBI is investigating the Houston shooting as an assault on a federal agent, while the DHS Office of Inspector General is conducting its probe.
Teare noted the lack of cooperation from ICE, stating that local investigators have not been provided with the names of the agents involved. This situation is deemed unusual, particularly since identifying agents involved in shootings is common practice.
Teare criticized ICE’s tactics, suggesting that the agents either lack proper training or deliberately put themselves in situations to justify using deadly force. He has a long career in law enforcement, which influences his perspective.
In response to the shootings, ICE has suspended vehicle stops by deportation agents until new guidance is issued. Teare’s office has also initiated steps to secure visas for witnesses to prevent their deportation during the investigation. These witnesses, including Salgado Araujo’s brother, were present during the incident and remain in ICE custody in Texas.
Juan Proaño, CEO of the League of United Latin American Citizens, called on federal officials not to deport the witnesses, as their testimony is crucial for a comprehensive investigation.