“It couldn’t be more serious.”

As a result, the judge dismissed the original charge against the individual, which involved allegedly making false statements on a driver’s license application. The judge then filed a contempt charge against the agent, opening the door for further review by local prosecutors to determine whether additional action is warranted.

One of the suspect’s attorneys called the agent’s actions “reprehensible,” emphasizing that law enforcement and prosecutors are responsible for ensuring justice is done and that removing a defendant from trial undermines that obligation.

The incident comes amid ongoing tensions between local authorities and federal enforcement agencies regarding courtroom arrests and cooperation practices.