A 19-year-old Venezuelan national, Bernardo Raul Castro Mata, has been arraigned on multiple charges, including attempted murder, after allegedly shooting at two NYPD officers in a standoff.

Castro Mata, who crossed the U.S.-Mexico border last year, faces 80 years to life in prison and is being held without bail due to his flight risk status, as Breitbart reports, with many pointing to the situation as evidence of President Joe Biden's catastrophically lax border policies.

The migrant was involved in a shootout with New York City Police officers Richard Yarusso and Christopher Abreu, both aged 26. The incident occurred when Castro Mata, riding a moped the wrong way down a one-way street, was stopped by the officers.

Castro Mata's Entry and Activities in the U.S.

Castro Mata crossed the U.S.-Mexico border near Eagle Pass, Texas, in July 2023. Since then, he had been residing at a taxpayer-funded migrant shelter in Queens. His deportation case was closed less than a month before the shooting by a federal immigration judge.

The confrontation escalated when Castro Mata allegedly fired a handgun at the officers at point-blank range. According to prosecutors, Yarusso was struck in the chest, but his bullet-proof vest saved his life. Abreu was hit in the leg.

The officers returned fire, striking Castro Mata in the ankle. He was subsequently apprehended and remains in recovery at a New York City hospital. Both officers were treated for their injuries and have been released.

Criminal Charges and Court Proceedings

On Wednesday, Castro Mata was arraigned on multiple charges, including two counts of attempted murder. He is being held without bail due to his status as a flight risk.

Prosecutors have linked Castro Mata to other crimes in New York City, including armed robberies. At the time of his arrest, he had two stolen credit cards in his possession.

His next court appearance is scheduled for June 7. The charges against him could result in a sentence of 80 years to life in prison.

Details of the Shootout Incident

The incident began when officers Yarusso and Abreu stopped Castro Mata for driving a moped the wrong way down a one-way street. During the stop, Castro Mata allegedly drew a handgun and fired at the officers.

Prosecutors detailed that Castro Mata fired at point-blank range, striking Yarusso in the chest. His bullet-proof vest absorbed the impact, saving his life. Abreu was shot in the leg during the exchange of gunfire.

The officers responded by shooting Castro Mata in the ankle, leading to his capture. He was taken into custody and transported to a hospital for treatment of his injuries.

Background and Previous Crimes

Castro Mata's background includes crossing the U.S.-Mexico border in July 2023 and residing at a migrant shelter in Queens. His deportation case was closed recently by a federal immigration judge, allowing him to remain in the country.

Beyond the shootout, prosecutors have connected Castro Mata to other criminal activities in New York City, including armed robberies. The presence of stolen credit cards on him at the time of his arrest further complicates his legal situation. The decision to hold him without bail stems from his status as an illegal alien, making him a significant flight risk. Authorities are taking no chances, given the severity of the charges and his potential to evade justice.

Impact on NYPD Officers and the Community

The shooting incident has had a profound impact on the NYPD officers involved and the broader community. Officer Yarusso's life was saved by his bullet-proof vest, while Officer Abreu is recovering from his leg injury.

The case has highlighted the risks faced by law enforcement officers daily. The community is closely watching the proceedings, reflecting concerns about safety and justice.

Castro Mata's criminal activities and the circumstances of his presence in the U.S. have sparked discussions about immigration enforcement and public safety. The case underscores the challenges in managing illegal immigration and its implications for local communities.

Conclusion

Bernardo Raul Castro Mata, a 19-year-old illegal alien from Venezuela, has been arraigned on charges of attempted murder after a shootout with NYPD officers.

He faces 80 years to life in prison and is held without bail due to being a flight risk. The incident, stemming from a traffic stop, led to injuries for both officers and Castro Mata, highlighting the dangers faced by law enforcement.

Linked to other crimes in New York City, Castro Mata's case emphasizes ongoing issues related to immigration and public safety.