A Los Angeles tow truck driver has been arrested on federal charges for allegedly interfering with an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation by towing a government vehicle during an arrest. Bobby Nunez is accused of stealing an ICE-issued vehicle while agents were conducting an immigration enforcement action on August 15.

According to a federal criminal complaint, Nunez filmed himself towing the vehicle as agents attempted to detain Tatiana Mafla-Martinez, a 23-year-old Colombian national living in Los Angeles. The ICE officers had positioned two government vehicles to block Martinez’s car and prevent her escape, with emergency lights activated. During the operation, Nunez approached Martinez’s vehicle and pressed the passenger door against an officer, prompting threats of arrest.

After being informed that officers were conducting a federal investigation, Nunez allegedly swore at them and warned, “Something was going to happen” to them. He then entered his Dodge tow truck and towed one of the government vehicles used to block Martinez’s car. At the time, the vehicle contained its keys and a firearm locked in a safe.

Two days later, law enforcement located Nunez’s tow truck parked at the same luxury apartment complex where the incident occurred. If convicted, Nunez faces up to 10 years in federal prison for theft of government property. Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli stated the arrest sends a message that interference with immigration enforcement will not be tolerated.