Two Stolen Vehicles Seized During Smuggling Events
DEL RIO, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Carrizo Springs and Del Rio stations seized two stolen vehicles during separate attempted human smuggling events over the weekend.
“Our Border Patrol Agents continue to locate and interdict illegal activity including the use of stolen vehicles in smuggling events,” said Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Raul L. Ortiz. “Despite resources being diverted to the humanitarian crisis, we have not lost focus on border security and enforcement operations.”
On June 21, Carrizo Springs agents assisted Dimmit County Sheriff’s Office deputies on a traffic stop near Asherton. One United States citizen was arrested for attempting to smuggle three illegal aliens. The vehicle used in this smuggling event, a 2007 Hyundai Sonata, was reported stolen out of Crystal City.
On June 23, Del Rio agents encountered a 2009 Honda Civic at the checkpoint on Highway 277. Two United States citizens were arrested for attempting to smuggle one illegal alien. The vehicle was previously reported stolen out of Houston.
Each of the smugglers face a charge of 8 USC § 1324 – alien smuggling, which carries a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison. The illegal aliens will be processed per U.S. Customs and Border Protection guidelines. The vehicles were turned over to local law enforcement for disposition.
All individuals apprehended by the U.S. Border Patrol undergo criminal history checks utilizing multiple databases including the use of biometrics to ensure those with criminal history are positively identified regardless of their immigration status.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation’s borders at and between official ports of entry. CBP is charged with securing the borders of the United States while enforcing hundreds of laws and facilitating lawful trade and travel.
