SPOKANE, WA – A Washington man has been sentenced to federal prison for assaulting federal officers during an attempted apprehension in Wenatchee.

Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that Chief U.S. District Judge Stanley A. Bastian sentenced Filiberto Santana, 34, to 84 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release.

The incident occurred after the Columbia River Drug Task Force requested assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service to apprehend Santana, who had active state warrants. Santana and a female were located in a stolen vehicle at a Park and Ride lot. Officers attempted to prevent escape by blocking the vehicle and issued commands for both occupants to raise their hands.

Instead of complying, the vehicle was put into gear, and attempts were made to flee. Santana was observed reaching around the car interior. Law enforcement broke a rear window to gain visibility and continued to issue commands. Both individuals resisted arrest despite use of tasers, which were ineffective due to heavy clothing.

Santana then pointed an object at officers, initially believed to be a firearm, but identified as a spray bottle. He sprayed a liquid at officers, striking a deputy marshal in the eyes and causing irritation. A second officer experienced lung irritation. Santana exited through the back window and was taken into custody. The female occupant was also subdued after a brief struggle.

The spray was later identified as interior detailing solution. A stolen Ruger handgun, ammunition, and other firearm accessories were recovered from the vehicle.

“This case demonstrates the daily risks faced by law enforcement,” Barker stated. “I am grateful to our partners who work together to protect Eastern Washington communities.”

The case was investigated by the FBI and the Columbia River Drug Task Force.

Case number: 2:23-cr-00133-SAB.