January 1, Illegal Alien Allegedly Targets Border Patrol Chief

Wyatt’s Take

• An illegal immigrant gang member accused of plotting to murder a top U.S. Border Patrol official
• Authorities arrested the suspect after finding Snapchat evidence of a $10,000 bounty
• Shooting highlights growing danger to law enforcement from criminal gangs at the border

A man accused of being in the Latin Kings gang allegedly tried to arrange the murder of United States Border Patrol Chief Gregory Bovino, according to the Department of Justice. The scheme came to light after a confidential source told Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) about the plot.

ICE said that Juan Espinoza Martinez, an illegal immigrant, put out a hit on Snapchat. Agents found messages promising $2,000 for information “cuando lo agarren,” meaning “when they catch him,” and $10,000 “if you take him down.” Another message linked the plot to the Latin Kings gang.

Authorities arrested Martinez on October 6 in Illinois, a state with policies that limit cooperation with ICE officials. Governor J.B. Pritzker has criticized ICE’s work in the past.

“Depraved individuals like Juan Espinoza Martinez – who do not value human life and threaten law enforcement – do not belong in this country,” stated Tricia McLaughlin from the Department of Homeland Security.

McLaughlin continued, “We will not allow criminal gangs to put hits on U.S. government officials and our law enforcement officers. Thanks to ICE and our federal law enforcement partners, this thug is off our streets and behind bars. These attacks on our brave law enforcement officers must end. Secretary Noem has been crystal clear: If you threaten or lay a hand on law enforcement, you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

Since 2024, attacks on ICE agents during arrests have risen by nearly 1,000 percent, highlighting the increased danger these men and women face on the job.

Stories like this show the real threats faced by law enforcement and the dangers of weak border policies. It’s a reminder that Middle America stands with the folks who protect our borders and keep our communities safe.

Wyatt Matters

This story shows why strong borders and support for law enforcement are about keeping regular families safe. Middle America wants laws followed and the people who protect us to be respected.

Full story here