A federal jury found Robyn Argote-Brooks, a 25-year-old Cuban from Havana, guilty last Friday on two counts of damaging government property after colliding with ICE vehicles in San Antonio, Texas. However, he was acquitted of the most severe charge: assaulting a federal officer with force.
The incident unfolded on January 13 in a Walmart parking lot in northern San Antonio. ICE agents attempted to arrest Argote-Brooks while he was working as a delivery driver.
Prosecutors stated that Argote-Brooks defied orders, attempted to flee, and struck two official vehicles, including a Nissan Pathfinder SUV. This caused damages estimated at $4,847 and injured an officer who was subsequently taken to a local hospital.
The entire event was captured on video, which was presented as evidence during the three-day trial, concluding after just two and a half hours of jury deliberation, according to Telemundo San Antonio.
Argote-Brooks was cleared of the charge of assaulting a federal officer with a deadly or dangerous weapon, which could have resulted in a prison sentence of up to 20 years.
Legal and Immigration Complications
Despite the acquittal, federal Judge Fred Biery ordered that Argote-Brooks remain in custody due to the conviction and a likely immigration hold.
The defense argued that Argote-Brooks does not speak English and was not given instructions in Spanish at the time of the incident, leaving him unaware of the arrest reason.
During the trial, Argote-Brooks testified that he acted out of panic, feeling surrounded by individuals who, he claimed, did not identify themselves and demanded he exit his vehicle, fearing he was being kidnapped.
Immigration Status and Policy Changes
The defense also presented evidence that Argote-Brooks was in the process of applying for permanent residency and renewing his work permit.
Argote-Brooks entered the United States in October 2024 through the port of Laredo, Texas, under the Biden administration's CBP One program, which granted him humanitarian parole.
However, the Department of Homeland Security revoked this benefit on April 18, 2025, as part of the Trump administration's efforts to reverse previous immigration policies.
Argote-Brooks claims he was not informed of this revocation, a point the defense used to explain his behavior during the incident.
Broader Implications and Future Sentencing
The case took a significant turn when ICE released footage showing agents pointing guns at Argote-Brooks' vehicle, sparking debate about whether his actions were due to panic or criminal intent.
The Department of Justice framed the conviction as part of "Operation Recover America," a nationwide initiative aimed at combating illegal immigration, dismantling criminal organizations, and protecting communities from violent offenders, as reported by local station KTSA.
The investigation was led by ICE's Homeland Security Investigations with support from the Enforcement and Removal Operations Office. This case is among the first to go to trial under the new Trump immigration policy.
Each count of destroying government property carries a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for September 1, 2026, before Judge Biery.
Key Questions Regarding the Case of Robyn Argote-Brooks
What are the charges against Robyn Argote-Brooks?
Robyn Argote-Brooks was found guilty of two counts of damaging government property but was acquitted of assaulting a federal officer with force.
What was the outcome of the jury's verdict?
The jury found Argote-Brooks guilty of damaging government property but not guilty of assaulting a federal officer, which was the most serious charge.
Why does Argote-Brooks claim he acted the way he did?
Argote-Brooks testified that he panicked, believing he was surrounded by unidentified individuals who demanded he exit his vehicle, fearing a potential kidnapping.
What legal actions are pending for Argote-Brooks?
Argote-Brooks remains in custody awaiting sentencing, facing up to 10 years for each count of property damage, with sentencing set for September 1, 2026.