Tucson, Ariz. (LAWFUEL) – Daniel Exiga , 21, of Tucson, was sentenced here on January 6, 2008, to 57 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Raner C. Collins. Exiga pleaded guilty on October 16, 2008, to Assault on a Federal Officer.
On April 27, 2008, Exiga was the driver of a vehicle parked at the Saguaro National Park near Tucson. The engine was running and a National Park Ranger approached the vehicle to conduct a welfare check on Exiga and a passenger who was also in the vehicle. After approaching the vehicle, the ranger noticed a clear cellophane baggie containing a white powder on the floor of the vehicle. Exiga was ordered to exit the vehicle and the ranger attempted to turn off the engine. Exiga shifted the vehicle into reverse and accelerated, pulling the ranger with the vehicle.
Exiga fled away at a high speed. During the flight Exiga attained speeds of 85 miles per hour, then lost control of the vehicle and crashed in the desert. The passenger in the vehicle was seriously injured in the crash. The ranger was not injured.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the National Park Service. The prosecution was handled by Jesse Figueroa, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Tucson.
CASE NUMBER; CR-8-666 TUC-RCC (JCG)
RELEASE NUMBER: 2009-006(Exiga)
