Attorney General James Uthmeier Announces Arrest of Illegal Alien for Battery on a FHP Trooper, Resisting Arrest with Violence

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Attorney General James Uthmeier announced that the Office of Statewide Prosecution, in partnership with the Office of the State Attorney for the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit, will charge an illegal alien for battery on a Florida Highway Patrol Trooper and resisting arrest with violence. The incident occurred during a traffic stop in Hillsborough County.

“Florida will not tolerate violent criminals—especially those who shouldn’t even be in our country—attacking our law enforcement officers,” said Attorney General James Uthmeier. “Our troopers risk their lives to keep this state safe, and those who think they can assault a Florida officer will face the full weight of the law.”

“A State Trooper was attacked while enforcing state and federal immigration law. He was serving and protecting our community. An attack on a law enforcement officer is an attack on our community,” said FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner. “Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida stands firm in defending the men and women who serve and protect our communities. We will continue to work with Attorney General Uthmeier and our partners to ensure violent criminals are brought to justice. We remain committed to our public safety and immigration enforcement mission.”

“Every day, Florida’s troopers face dangers serving the residents and visitors of Florida. This incident is a reminder of the courage and dedicated professionalism your troopers display when confronting violent offenders,” said FHP Colonel Gary Howze. “I’m proud of this trooper’s actions and commitment to duty. We are grateful for our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners who ensure accountability for those choosing criminality over peace.”

On October 20, 2025, a Florida Highway Patrol Trooper conducted a traffic stop on State Road 579 in Hillsborough County for an improperly displayed tag. During the encounter, the trooper learned the driver and passenger entered the U.S. illegally.

Under the 287(g) program, the trooper attempted to detain passenger Leonardo Gomez Hernandez, 40, of Mexico. Gomez Hernandez, who entered the United States without inspection at an unknown date and time, resisted arrest and attempted to run away when the trooper deployed his taser. As Gomez Hernandez resisted, he choked and punched the trooper.

Once backup arrived on scene, troopers detained Gomez Hernandez. He will be charged with Resisting an Officer with Violence and Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer, both of which are second-degree felonies due to his status as an illegal alien. Each charge carries a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Gomez Hernandez is held on no bond in the Hillsborough County Jail.

Thanks to Deputy Chief Assistant Statewide Prosecutor Cristina Castillo and Assistant Statewide Prosecutor Eric Ross for handling the case. Castillo and Ross were cross sworn by the State Attorney for Florida’s Thirteenth Judicial Circuit, Suzy Lopez.

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