Three U.S. Army soldiers have been charged by federal authorities in an alleged cross-border human smuggling attempt. The suspects, identified as Emilio Mendoza Lopez, Angel Palma, and Enrique Jauregui, are stationed at Fort Cavazos in central Texas, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas.
The incident came to light when a U.S. Border Patrol agent stopped a vehicle in Presidio, Texas, on Nov. 27. The driver of the vehicle, later identified as Palma, fled on foot after the vehicle was stopped by law enforcement. Four individuals, including Mendoza Lopez and three undocumented foreign nationals, were found in the car.
An investigation into Palma’s phone revealed messages between him, Mendoza Lopez, and Jauregui, suggesting a coordinated effort in the smuggling operation. Jauregui, who was not present during the incident, was alleged to be the recruiter and facilitator of the operation.
Mendoza Lopez appeared in court on Dec. 2, facing charges of bringing in and harboring aliens. Palma and Jauregui were arrested at Fort Cavazos on Dec. 3 and are charged with similar offenses, as well as assaulting a federal agent.
Other U.S. military service members have faced similar charges in the past, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat cross-border smuggling attempts. The broader context includes past deployments of military personnel for border security under different administrations.
The case underscores the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in preventing illegal border crossings and the collaboration needed to address such issues effectively.
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