Judge Acquits Undocumented Man in Ramming Case | Baton Rouge News

An undocumented man in Baton Rouge walks free after a federal judge acquitted him of intentionally ramming immigration agents — a charge that could’ve landed him nearly 20 years in prison. The judge called the government’s account “the least plausible,” citing inconsistencies: Merida-Tavera slowed down, surrendered, and didn’t flee — behaviors that contradicted the prosecution’s theory. Defense attorneys argued he was mistaken for a target due to his appearance, highlighting a troubling pattern of targeting Latinos with no criminal record. The case cost taxpayers over $25,000 in interpreter fees — all for an acquittal. Merida-Tavera was deported to Mexico after his release. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/1881032d20a0ffc3