Man Pleads Not Guilty in ICE Assault Case
Wilber Rafael Garces Perez faces federal charges following a shooting incident in Austin.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Immigration
Wilber Rafael Garces Perez pleaded not guilty to federal charges of assaulting and obstructing an officer. He remains in federal custody following his indictment by a grand jury.
Why it matters
The case highlights the intersection of immigration enforcement and federal criminal prosecution. The pending charges have suspended existing efforts to deport the defendant.
A federal grand jury indicted Wilber Rafael Garces Perez on a single count of assaulting, resisting, impeding, and obstructing a federal officer. If convicted, he faces a maximum potential sentence of 20 years in prison.
The players
Wilber Rafael Garces Perez
The defendant is a foreign national who entered the United States through the CBP One App and now faces federal assault charges.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
This federal agency is responsible for enforcing immigration laws and is the entity involved in the traffic stop and subsequent shooting of the defendant.
The details
Two ICE agents stopped Garces Perez during a food delivery in Austin, where he fled in his vehicle after being ordered to exit. He had previously entered the U.S. via the CBP One App but faced a deportation order after missing a required court appearance.
Timeline
December 2025: Garces Perez's work permit expired.
September 20, 2026: Garces Perez was shot by an ICE officer.
September 30, 2026: A federal court hearing was held regarding the case.
October 20, 2026: Garces Perez was indicted by a grand jury.
October 27, 2026: Garces Perez filed a not guilty plea.
Political Context
This case underscores the legal complexities that arise when individuals utilizing the CBP One App immigration entry process encounter federal law enforcement during their stay. It highlights the friction between administrative immigration pathways and federal criminal justice enforcement protocols.
The legal proceedings in this case are handled within the federal court system rather than through local Austin administrative channels. Residents should be aware that federal criminal charges can override previous immigration status or work permit considerations.
The takeaway
The case serves as a reminder of the serious legal repercussions associated with obstructing federal officers. Individuals navigating the immigration system must adhere to all scheduled court appearances to maintain their legal standing.
Further reading
For more information on current federal enforcement procedures, visit the Immigration section.
