Federal investigators say a serious threat against Border Patrol Chief Gregory Bovino emerged after a confidential informant warned that someone linked to the Latin Kings was “offering cash to track and ultimately kill a senior border official.” The tip prompted an urgent response from Homeland Security Investigations.

The inquiry quickly focused on Juan Espinoza Martinez of Burr Ridge, Illinois. Authorities say online messages connected to him discussed payments for surveillance and a larger reward for violence, language that “left little doubt the threat was both coordinated and real.”

Investigators acted before the plan could move forward. Martinez was taken into custody in suburban Chicago, with officials noting the arrest involved “arresting Martinez without incident” and no injuries.

The Justice Department has charged Martinez with “soliciting the murder of a senior federal law enforcement officer.” The charge is a felony and carries the possibility of severe prison time if he is convicted.

DHS officials describe the case as “a stark warning to gangs and criminal networks.” They emphasized that any attempt to target federal officers will bring swift action and “immediate, unforgiving consequences.”