Man 'Brake-Checks,' Gives Middle Finger To Immigration Agents On Metro Detroit Freeway: Feds

MICHIGAN — A Ypsilanti man is facing charges in connection with a road rage incident involving Border Patrol agents on a metro Detroit freeway, according to federal officials.

Jacob Nathaniel Len, 30, was charged with using a dangerous weapon (a vehicle) to assault, resist or impede federal officers, a felony that carries a 20-year maximum sentence. His next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 25.

The incident happened on July 7 on Interstate 96 near Kensington Road in Brighton Township, according to federal officials.

Officials said four uniformed U.S. Border Patrol agents were inside two marked Border Patrol service vehicles that were moving 15 immigrants who were detained on immigration violations to a correctional facility in Baldwin.

While the agents were moving on Interstate 96, Len drove his BMW sedan toward one of the marked Border Patrol vehicles and flashed his middle finger at the agents, officials said.

After clearing the front bumper of the transport van, the BMW abruptly cut in front of the van without signaling, officials said.

That forced the transport van driver to firmly brake to avoid a collision, officials said.

The driver of the trailing Border Patrol vehicle was also forced to quickly brake to avoid smashing into the transport van, officials said.

Len repeated the sudden braking maneuver twice before exiting the freeway, officials said.

"While zipping around in his BMW, this defendant cavalierly endangered the hardworking agents who put their lives on the line every day protecting our country, the illegal aliens they were tasked with safely transporting, and other drivers going about their lives," United States Attorney Jerome Gorgon said.

The incident is being investigated by special agents from the FBI.

"Interfering with a federal agent performing their official duties is a serious criminal offense and will not be tolerated," said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office.