Sheriff Jack McDaniel of Alpine, Texas, On July 18, 1996 arrived to arrest Alvaro at his home on a trumped up charge of aggravated robbery When the unarmed Alvaro questioned the sheriff's action, the officer drew his weapon. Before he could shoot, Alvaro disarmed him and fled. (At the trial for robbery, Alvaro represented himself and had the charge dismissed.). No warrant for the arrest had been issued.
Later after the trial decision, without identifying themselves, police began shooting indiscriminately at the house, cars parked in front and at the public streetlights. At a new trial, witnesses explained, that the police shooting resembled a "war zone." Alvaro returned fire in self-defense and never shot or injured anyone. Alvaro dialed 911 (emergency) and notified other officials that police were firing at him and others would not allow them to surrender.
Alvaro was convicted of "threatening" the sheriff, but acquitted on the charge of shooting Sgt. Hines on June 29, 1997. He received a 50-year sentence. His case is currently on appeal.