Lawyer Claims Federal Deception Justified Marimar Martinez Shooting
New evidence has emerged that challenges the narrative surrounding the shooting of Marimar Martinez, a Chicago woman targeted by a Border Patrol agent. This incident occurred during a confrontation in Brighton Park in October. Federal agents asserted that Martinez had assaulted them by ramming her vehicle into one of their cars, a claim she and her attorney dispute.
Details of the Shooting Incident
On October 4, Border Patrol agent Charles Exum shot Martinez five times during the altercation. She was subsequently charged with various crimes, but those charges were dropped after her lawyer, Chris Parente, presented body camera footage that contradicted the agents’ statements. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has since released evidence that raises questions about the agents’ use of force protocols.
Evidence and Body Camera Footage
The released evidence includes:
- Text messages from agent Charles Exum.
- Body camera footage from agents Adam J. Perkins and Lorenzo Cordero.
- Reports and emails from the FBI.
This footage shows that Exum’s account of the incident—that Martinez attempted to run him over—does not hold up. Instead, it indicates she was trying to drive away when Exum fired at her. In one unsettling moment captured in the video, agents are heard saying, “It’s time to get aggressive,” while preparing to engage.
Contradictions and Misrepresentations
Further analysis reveals that the agents used misleading diagrams to justify their actions. They falsely claimed that Exum was trapped by multiple vehicles when video evidence disproved this narrative. Martinez’s attorney highlighted these inconsistencies during a press conference, arguing that the situation was mishandled from the outset, with agents acting against established use-of-force guidelines.
Implications for Federal Agents
The incident has prompted administrative leave for Exum, alongside a broader examination of use-of-force practices by Border Patrol. The agency has stated that all significant incidents are thoroughly reviewed by an independent body, which includes senior officials from both Homeland Security and the Justice Department. Each of the involved agents had considerable experience, with Cordero having five years and Perkins 17 years in the field.
Potential Legal Action
Marimar Martinez is now pursuing civil claims against the federal government and agent Exum, seeking substantial monetary damages for her injuries and emotional trauma. Her claims will include a Federal Tort Claims Act filing and a Bivens claim, both aimed at seeking justice for her ordeal.
As the situation continues to unfold, questions remain regarding accountability and the treatment of individuals by federal forces. Martinez’s resolve to pursue her case underscores a call for transparency and justice.
