Alex Pretti - The Fact Based Starting Point
Segment #766
We can disagree on ICE tactics, how and when they are deployed or maybe even on training programs. What is not debatable is whether Pretti did obstruct ICE officers (its on tape) and whether he was carrying a loaded weapon (its on tape). Anyone not agreeing with these basic facts regardless of how onerous they may be, has no credibility in a democracy. Simply stated disregard these pundits because they are gaslighting, lying, or just totally unformed.
Based on the federal statutes governing the protection of officers, the legal framework you are referring to is 18 U.S.C. § 111, which covers assaulting, resisting, or impeding federal officers. The sentencing range you cited—8 to 20 years—aligns exactly with the statutory maximums outlined in this law for specific tiers of the offense.
Here is the breakdown of the law regarding the penalties for obstructing federal law enforcement officers:
A shocking video shows Alex Pretti kicking and smashing the tail light of a federal agent’s SUV—just 11 days before he was fatally shot by Customs and Border Protection. The footage, captured on January 13, reveals a volatile encounter where Pretti, visibly armed, confronts ICE agents… only to be released on the street. Why did they let him go? And how did this moment lead to his death? In this video, we break down the full timeline—from the tail light clash to the fatal confrontation. Was Pretti targeted after this? What role did the handgun play? And what does the government say now that the video is public? Viewer discretion advised: this story is intense, emotional, and under investigation. Watch now and decide for yourself.
1. The 8-Year Sentence (Physical Contact)
Under 18 U.S.C. § 111(a), if an individual forcibly assaults, resists, opposes, impedes, intimidates, or interferes with a federal officer while they are engaged in their official duties, and the act involves physical contact (or the intent to commit another felony), the punishment is a fine and/or imprisonment for not more than 8 years.
This photo isolates on the 9 MM loaded Sig Sauer Pretti had in this waist band holster
2. The 20-Year Sentence (Deadly Weapon)
Under 18 U.S.C. § 111(b) (Enhanced Penalty), the sentence increases significantly if the individual:
Uses a deadly or dangerous weapon (including a loaded firearm) during the commission of the acts described above; OR
Inflicts bodily injury on the officer.
In this specific tier, the statute mandates a maximum sentence of 20 years.
Sig Sauer P320-AXG (Confirmed by Feds)
The firearm associated with Alex Pretti is a Sig Sauer P320-AXG Combat (a high-end variant of the popular P320 series), chambered in 9mm. This model is from Sig Sauer's custom or enhanced lineup (often marked with "Sig Custom Works"), popular among enthusiasts, law enforcement, and military users for its modularity, reliability, and performance features. It retails in the $1,100–$1,300 range and typically includes high-capacity magazines (e.g., three 21-round ones).Key modifications and custom features noted in reports and descriptions of the specific pistol include:
Red dot optic / detachable sight — A mounted optic (likely a red-dot sight) for improved accuracy and faster target acquisition.
Flat trigger — A custom or aftermarket-style flat-faced trigger, which provides a straighter pull and is favored by many shooters for better control and feel compared to the standard curved trigger.
Customized grip — Enhanced or aftermarket grip texture/frame (the AXG series uses an aluminum grip module for better ergonomics, weight, and handling).
Other potential traits (common to the AXG Combat model) — Threaded barrel (for suppressors or compensators), though not always explicitly confirmed in every description.
Standard/Factory Magazines: 21 rounds each (extended baseplate design that protrudes slightly below the grip for higher capacity while maintaining compatibility with the AXG alloy grip module and its built-in extended magwell for faster reloads).
These are factory-custom or popular enthusiast upgrades available through Sig's Custom Works program or compatible parts, making it a "tricked out" or personalized carry/defense pistol rather than a bone-stock version.Here are some relevant images of the Sig Sauer P320 AXG Combat (matching the described model and features from public reports):(Note: These depict the model type; the exact one from the incident may vary slightly in color or exact setup based on photos released by authorities, but it aligns closely with the P320-AXG Combat configuration.)
Summary of the Law
You are correct that under the federal criminal code, the presence of a weapon and the act of obstruction fundamentally shift the legal exposure.
Obstruction/Resistance with Contact: Up to 8 years.
Obstruction/Resistance with a Weapon: Up to 20 years.
This establishes the baseline legal jeopardy for any individual found guilty of these specific elements under federal law.
Would you like me to look up the specific guidelines regarding "brandishing" versus "carrying" under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c), which can add mandatory consecutive sentences to the charges above?