NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – December 12, 2023
SAN DIEGO – U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer Andre Maurice Chevalier pleaded guilty in federal court today to using unreasonable force on an individual who had applied for admission to the United States from Mexico.
Chevalier admitted in his plea agreement that on April 23, 2022, while he was on duty at the San Ysidro Port of Entry, he encountered a woman at a primary inspection booth. Chevalier admitted that he pulled the woman, identified in court documents by the initials Y.F., out of her vehicle and slung her into the booth. Her face struck the booth. She sustained injuries to her face and fell to the ground. Chevalier then picked up Y.F., shoved her against her vehicle and handcuffed her. Chevalier admitted that he acted willfully and intentionally and deprived Y.F. of her right to be free from an unreasonable use of force.
Chevalier agreed to resign and not seek future employment with a federal law enforcement agency.
“Mr. Chevalier’s conduct was inexcusable,” said U.S. Attorney Tara K. McGrath. “His guilty plea and resignation mean he no longer has authority over, or the opportunity to abuse, those entering the country.”
“Federal law enforcement officers are expected to treat the public with courtesy and respect,” said Department of Homeland Security Inspector General Joseph V. Cuffari. “Those who fail to adhere to this standard will be held accountable.”
Chevalier is scheduled to be sentenced on March 8, 2024, at 9 a.m. before U.S. District Judge Anthony J. Battaglia.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Seth Askins and Jill Streja.
DEFENDANT Case Number 23cr2510.
Andre Maurice Chevalier Age: 41 Temecula, CA
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Deprivation of Rights Under Color of Law (misdemeanor) – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 242
Maximum penalty: One year in prison and $100,000 fine
AGENCY
Department of Homeland Security – Office of Inspector General