Three U.S. Army Soldiers Arrested on Human Smuggling Charges
U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas announced the arrests of three U.S. Army soldiers on human smuggling charges.
Arrests Made
Soldiers Emilio Mendoza Lopez, Angel Palma, and Enrique Jauregui were arrested after a vehicle allegedly driven by Palma and carrying Mendoza Lopez, a Mexican national, and two Guatemalan nationals was stopped on November 27 by law enforcement in Presidio, Texas, along the border with Mexico.
Charges Filed
Mendoza Lopez was arrested at the scene of the traffic stop, while Palma, who allegedly fled the scene, and Jauregui were arrested on Tuesday at Fort Cavazos, Texas. Mendoza Lopez is currently jailed without bail.
Accusations
According to Esparza, Mendoza Lopez and Palma allegedly traveled from Fort Cavazos to Presidio to pick up and transport undocumented noncitizens. Jauregui is alleged to be the recruiter and facilitator of the human smuggling conspiracy.
Investigation
Data extracted from Palma’s phone through a search warrant revealed messages between the three soldiers indicating collaboration in the smuggling operation.
Attorneys’ Reactions
Mendoza Lopez’s attorney, Shane Chriesman, said he is awaiting more information from prosecutors and will develop a plan of attack once he receives the discovery. He will also try to get a bond set for Mendoza Lopez.
No attorneys are listed in jail records who could speak for Palma and Jauregui, who are awaiting their first court appearance on Friday.
Conclusion
The arrests of these three U.S. Army soldiers on human smuggling charges serve as a reminder of the serious nature of this crime and the importance of enforcing our laws to protect our borders and citizens.
FAQs
Q: What are the charges against the soldiers?
A: The soldiers are charged with human smuggling.
Q: What was the alleged purpose of the trip?
A: Mendoza Lopez and Palma allegedly traveled to pick up and transport undocumented noncitizens.
Q: Who is the alleged recruiter and facilitator of the human smuggling conspiracy?
A: Enrique Jauregui is alleged to be the recruiter and facilitator of the human smuggling conspiracy.
Q: What is the current status of the soldiers?
A: Mendoza Lopez is currently jailed without bail, while Palma and Jauregui are awaiting their first court appearance on Friday.
