Today, Pedro Alvarado, 41, and Arnoldo Alvarado, 18, have been arrested and charged with the assault of a Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agent.  The Hargill, Texas men are currently in custody and expected to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Peter Orsmby.

Both are charged with assault of a federal officer and knowingly using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.

On July 3, 2012, HSI special agents were conducting surveillance of a narcotics transaction believed to be occurring near Hargill. While parked in his official vehicle an HSI agent was allegedly approached by another vehicle from which shots were fired.  According to the complaint the agent’s car was pursued and was continuously fired at.

The agent then lost control of his vehicle, at which time additional agents arrived and discovered the agent had been shot one time in the back.

HSI special agents then conducted a search at a residence in Hargill and encountered Pedro Alvarado and his son, Arnoldo Alvarado, who were then taken into federal custody for further questioning. A third person, a minor, was also identified in relation to the crime and was turned over to state authorities.

The father-son- duo if found guilty can face up to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $250,000. The Alvarados also face a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison as well as a $250,000 fine for using and carrying a firearm.