In a twist that only New York’s eclectic ecosystem could conjure, 19-year-old Venezuelan migrant Bernardo Raul Castro Mata has made headlines for trading the sunshine of his home country for the dimly lit quarters of Rikers Island. Mata has been charged with shooting two NYPD officers in what can only be described as the least advisable route to the American Dream.

The drama unfolded early Monday morning around 1:40 a.m. in Elmhurst, Queens, a time when most people are either sound asleep or involved in far less exciting misadventures. According to authorities, Mata allegedly fired a .380-caliber Hi-Point pistol at one officer at "point-blank range" during a scuffle, ensuring that his marksmanship skills—or lack thereof—would not go unnoticed.

Despite fleeing from police on a scooter in what could have been a low-budget sequel to "Fast and Furious," Mata was eventually apprehended and arraigned on a slew of charges including attempted murder, assault, and criminal possession of a weapon. Oh, and he was arraigned from his hospital bed, because why not add some dramatic flair to the proceedings?

The courtroom was packed with more than 50 police officers there to show support for injured officers Christopher Abreu and Richard Yarusso, both 26. Judge Jeffrey Gershuny, with a poker face that would make any Las Vegas dealer proud, ordered that Mata be held without bail, citing him as a flight risk. That's judicial speak for “We don't trust you as far as we can throw you.”

To add another layer to this international telenovela, Mata has been linked to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. He entered the U.S. illegally last July in Texas and was staying at a former airport hotel-turned-migrant shelter in Queens, which now seems like a foreshadowing episode of “Borderline Ridiculous.”

Mata didn't just stick to the shooting; he apparently multitasks. At the time of his arrest, he was in possession of multiple credit cards, some of which were linked to previous robberies. This entrepreneurial side hustle, while innovative, probably won't look too good on a resume—unless he’s applying for a role in a heist movie.

The gun in question was a .380-caliber Hi-Point pistol, an interesting choice that suggests he’s either on a tight budget or has a flair for underwhelming armaments. As for Judge Gershuny's final verdict? Mata will be headed to Rikers Island once he’s released from the hospital, ensuring he swaps his scooter and sunshine for an orange jumpsuit and some quality time with other like-minded individuals.

For now, Mata’s legal woes are another chapter in the larger saga of immigration, crime, and the endless drama that is New York City. And while his story may not have a happy ending, it’s certainly given the tabloids—and courtroom enthusiasts—a lot to talk about.