Three soldiers from Fort Cavazos, Texas, face serious allegations of conspiring to smuggle undocumented immigrants, according to the Department of Justice (DOJ). The charges stem from a Nov. 27 incident where U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) agents stopped a vehicle in Presidio, Texas, transporting three undocumented individuals.
Details of the Incident
The undocumented passengers included a Mexican national and two Guatemalan nationals. The vehicle initially fled from Border Patrol agents, colliding with another USBP vehicle and injuring an agent. Authorities later apprehended one of the soldiers, Emilio Mendoza Lopez, at the scene. The alleged driver, Angel Palma, reportedly fled on foot but was located the next day at a hotel in Odessa, Texas.
Investigation Unveils Collaboration
Federal prosecutors revealed that text messages obtained from Palma’s phone show communication between the three soldiers, including Enrique Jauregui, suggesting collaboration in the smuggling operation. The DOJ stated the soldiers traveled from Fort Cavazos to Presidio to transport the undocumented individuals.
Mendoza Lopez is charged with one count of “bringing in and harboring aliens,” while both Palma and Jauregui face additional charges, including assaulting a federal agent. Court appearances for the soldiers have been scheduled, but it remains unclear if they have legal representation.
Army’s Response
A Fort Cavazos spokesperson confirmed the arrests, stating that the Army is fully cooperating with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. The military emphasized its commitment to upholding the law and ensuring justice in the case.
The investigation highlights the complexities of border security and the challenges faced by authorities in combating illegal smuggling activities.
This case underscores the importance of vigilance in border operations and raises concerns about the involvement of military personnel in illegal activities. Further court proceedings will determine the outcome of these serious allegations.
For more detailed coverage on this story, visit the Department of Justice’s official page.
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