DOJ drops charges against 2 people accused of ramming vehicles of federal agents conducting Chicago immigration sweeps

November 20, 2025

United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents conduct operations in the Little Village neighborhood, a predominantly Mexican American community in Chicago, United States on November 08, 2025. Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu via Getty Images

(CHICAGO) -- The Department of Justice has abruptly moved to dismiss the indictment against two people accused last month of "ambushing" federal agents conducting an immigration sweep in Chicago, including a woman who was shot five times in the incident.

The government filed a motion on Thursday asking a federal judge to "dismiss the indictment and exonerate" Marimar Martinez and Anthony Ruiz, who were involved in a collision with U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents in Chicago on Oct. 4.

The incident set off street protests on Chicago's Southwest Side.

Martinez’s attorney, Christopher Parente, told ABC News on Thursday that he and his clients are relieved by the government's decision.

"We appreciate the U.S. attorney being thoughtful in agreeing to dismiss this," Parente said.

The case is scheduled for a status hearing at 5 p.m. ET on Thursday, during which the government's motion to dismiss will be heard.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.