Veteran U.S. Customs and Border Protection agent Luis Uribe stood trial to defend his character, claiming he was raised to respect women. Despite his assertions, a federal jury found him guilty of abusing his position to rob, sexually assault, and beat four Chinese sex workers in Chicago-area hotels in 2022.
The jury deliberated for approximately 6 1/2 hours before concluding Uribe’s guilt on 11 counts. These included deprivation of rights under color of law and brandishing a firearm during a violent crime. Uribe, 45, attended the verdict reading in a dark suit, showing no visible response as the decision was announced.
Supporters and family members were present, visibly affected by the outcome. Uribe faces a prison sentence ranging from 7 years to life. His sentencing is scheduled for January 21.
“Take care of my kids,” Uribe called to his relatives as he was escorted out.
The trial ended swiftly with graphic testimonies about the exploitation involved in the Chinese sex trade. One expert testified how new immigrants are misled by prospects of simple earnings in massages, which can lead to forced labor.
Stationed at O’Hare International Airport, Uribe was arrested in December 2025. He faced allegations of using his authority to attack women over nine months. Prosecutors argued he betrayed his duty, utilizing his position for personal offense. Conversely, Uribe’s defense stated that he was trapped by individuals seeking his help with immigration issues.
Evidence included Uribe’s government-issued firearm and badge, identified by the victims, and his DNA on hotel linens. Jurors also saw a selfie from Uribe’s phone showing him with the gun. Victims testified via interpreters, identifying Uribe, who they thought impersonated an officer.
A photo circulated through WeChat warned others of Uribe. It was taken by a sex trafficking figure, known as “Lisa,” who testified about a meeting offering Uribe free sex for stopping his attacks, to which he readily agreed, never denying involvement in the assaults.
Uribe testified in his defense, alleging a bribe offer for immigration assistance in exchange for $7,000 and sex, denying any non-consensual encounters. A notable exchange in court occurred when Uribe mentioned getting a ‘workout’ from a supposed consensual encounter, which the prosecution highlighted as an inappropriate comparison to rape.
In closing statements, Uribe’s lawyer tried to dismiss the comment as a frustrated response to courtroom tension. Prosecutor Jonathan Shih emphasized the stark contrast between victims’ emotional testimonies and Uribe’s demeanor, highlighting the latter’s insensitivity.
“He was a rapist in a police uniform,” Shih stated to the jury.
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