Honduran national charged with assaulting ICE officers in New Jersey

Reinieri De Jesus Licona Amador, a 27-year-old Honduran national, has been charged with assaulting federal officers following an incident in Gibbsboro, New Jersey, on October 4, 2026.

During an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation, officers conducted a license plate check on a truck and identified the registered owner as Licona Amador, who was determined to be in the United States without lawful status. When officers attempted to pull the vehicle over using emergency lights, Licona Amador reportedly grabbed a hammer from a tool container.

According to federal complaints, Licona Amador ignored commands to stop and moved to the passenger seat with the weapon. Although officers deployed OC spray and attempted to restrain him, he allegedly climbed out of the vehicle and swung the hammer multiple times at two officers. While no injuries were reported, authorities stated that the weapon could have caused serious or fatal injuries had it made contact.

Licona Amador faces charges for assault using a deadly or dangerous weapon, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. He is scheduled to be deported following the completion of his sentence.