A Houston woman, Jennifer Jesselle Perez-Rodriguez, 28, has been charged with assaulting a federal officer after allegedly threatening agents with a machete. If convicted, she faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
The incident took place last month on Anderson Road, where federal agents in unmarked vehicles were approached by Perez-Rodriguez, who reportedly stepped into the street and began swinging a machete, according to the criminal complaint. Agents used a siren and gave verbal commands to stop, but she allegedly continued advancing, prompting one FBI agent to fire their weapon.
Perez-Rodriguez was struck and taken to the hospital for medical treatment. Her condition and motive were not immediately disclosed. She is scheduled to appear in court before U.S. Magistrate Judge Dena Hanovice Palermo.
The FBI and Houston Police Department are jointly investigating the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Byron H. Black is handling the prosecution.
