Miguel Francisco Mora Nunez received a 15-year federal prison sentence on October 5, 2026. The sentencing relates to the July 2025 shooting of an off-duty U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer in New York City. Mora Nunez, an illegal immigrant from the Dominican Republic, was convicted on federal charges.
His co-defendant, Christian Aybar-Berroa, also received a federal sentence. Aybar-Berroa, identified as the getaway driver, was sentenced to 12-and-a-half years in prison. Both individuals were convicted federally of possession of ammunition by an illegal alien.
The Incident and Federal Convictions
The shooting occurred in July 2025 in New York City. An off-duty U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer was targeted during an attempted robbery. Mora Nunez was identified as the shooter in the incident.
Federal prosecutors pursued charges against both Mora Nunez and Aybar-Berroa. The primary federal conviction for both was possession of ammunition by an illegal alien. This charge underscores their immigration status as a key component of the federal case.
United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York Todd Blanche assumed office on August 10, 2026. His tenure has seen the conclusion of several high-profile federal cases, including this one.
Immigration Status and Future Deportation
Both Miguel Francisco Mora Nunez and Christian Aybar-Berroa are in the United States illegally. They are citizens of the Dominican Republic. Their immigration status played a significant role in the federal charges brought against them.
Upon completion of their federal prison sentences, both individuals are subject to deportation. This process will be handled by U.S. immigration authorities. The federal conviction for possession of ammunition by an illegal alien directly impacts their eligibility to remain in the country.
Pending State Charges in New York
Despite their federal convictions and sentences, Mora Nunez and Aybar-Berroa still face state charges in New York. These charges include assault, attempted robbery, robbery, and criminal possession of a weapon. Mora Nunez also faces attempted murder charges at the state level.
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They are scheduled to appear in state court in November 2026 for these pending charges. The dual prosecution, both federal and state, reflects the severity and complexity of the crimes committed. New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who took office on January 1, 2026, has addressed concerns about public safety and the legal system in the city.
The Broader Context of Crime and Immigration
This case has drawn attention to the intersection of immigration policy, crime, and law enforcement. The shooting of a federal officer by individuals in the country illegally has fueled public debate. Discussions often center on border security and the impact of undocumented immigration on urban areas.
Law enforcement agencies, including U.S. Customs and Border Protection, operate across various jurisdictions. Their officers, even when off-duty, can become targets of criminal activity. The federal government’s involvement in this case highlights the national implications of such incidents.
The legal proceedings against Mora Nunez and Aybar-Berroa have been closely watched. They represent a significant case in the ongoing conversation about justice and public safety in major American cities like New York.
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