Border Patrol Nabs Human Smugglers at Immigration Checkpoint

Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents working at the immigration checkpoint on State Route 86, near Three Points, Ariz. stopped a human smuggling load last week.

Agents stopped a Chevrolet Impala with two visible occupants and obtained permission from the driver to search the vehicle last Friday. As a result, the agent discovered two Mexican nationals being smuggled in the vehicle’s trunk. Neither of the passengers had knowledge on how to escape from the trunk in an emergency. The driver and front passenger are being charged with human smuggling and the Mexican nationals are being held for immigration violations.

Federal law allows agents to charge individuals by complaint, a method that allows the filing of charges for criminal activity without inferring guilt. An individual is presumed innocent unless and until competent evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

U.S. Customs & Border Protection welcomes assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol by calling 1-877-872-7435 toll free. All calls will be answered and remain anonymous.