Migrant Smuggler Pleads Guilty to Sexually Assaulting Juvenile During Travel to the United States
In a shocking case of migrant smuggling, a man named Cecilio Yonatan Jimenez-Bautista from Mexico has pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting a 17-year-old female during their journey from Mexico to the United States. Jimenez-Bautista admitted to leading a group of undocumented migrants into the United States and sexually assaulting the minor multiple times, causing serious bodily injury. His actions highlight the cruelty and lack of regard for human life displayed by smugglers driven solely by profit. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of law enforcement efforts in combating violent human smuggling and emphasizes the commitment to bringing those responsible to justice.
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Title
Migrant Smuggler Admits to Sexually Assaulting Juvenile During Travel to the United States
Summary
In a shocking case, migrant smuggler Cecilio Yonatan Jimenez-Bautista of Mexico has pleaded guilty to alien smuggling charges and admitted to sexually assaulting a 17-year-old female during their journey from Mexico to the United States. The minor was unaccompanied by relatives or a guardian, making her vulnerable to such horrific crimes. Jimenez-Bautista, who led at least 25 undocumented aliens into the country, charged fees ranging from $5,000 to $9,500 per migrant. He will now face sentencing, and prosecutors are determined to bring justice to the victim and ensure that such crimes do not go unpunished.
Background
The issue of human smuggling has long plagued the United States and is a major concern for law enforcement agencies. Migrant smugglers exploit vulnerable individuals seeking a better life, often subjecting them to dangerous and illegal methods of entry into the country. This case highlights the dark reality of human smuggling, as the smuggler not only facilitated illegal entry but also committed heinous acts of sexual assault against a minor.
Criminal Charges and Admission of Guilt
Cecilio Yonatan Jimenez-Bautista, a migrant smuggler from Mexico, has pleaded guilty in federal court to alien smuggling charges. He has admitted that, while carrying out these crimes, he sexually assaulted a 17-year-old female multiple times during their journey from Mexico to the United States. This shocking admission of guilt reveals the disturbing behavior of some smugglers, who not only exploit vulnerable individuals but also subject them to physical and emotional harm.
Smuggling Operation and Fees
According to Jimenez-Bautista’s plea agreement, he led at least 25 undocumented aliens from Mexico into the United States between March 15, 2022, and June 29, 2022. His smuggling fees ranged from $5,000 to $9,500 per migrant, highlighting the significant profits these smugglers make from their illegal activities. This lucrative business incentivizes human smuggling, putting vulnerable individuals at even greater risk.
Sexual Assault of a Minor
The most disturbing aspect of this case is the sexual assault perpetrated against a 17-year-old minor by Jimenez-Bautista. The victim was isolated from the group of migrants and subjected to unwanted touching of her breasts and genitalia without permission. On another occasion, she was sexually assaulted, causing serious bodily injury. This appalling crime highlights the vulnerability of minors in the hands of ruthless smugglers and the urgent need for stronger protections.
Statements from Officials
U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath expressed her disdain for the defendant’s actions, stating that “the defendant had no regard for this child’s humanity.” She emphasized that this brutal victimization is just another example of the cruelty of smugglers who prioritize profit over the well-being of those they smuggle. Chad Plantz, special agent in charge of HSI San Diego, highlighted the importance of law enforcement’s combined effort in investigating human smugglers capable of such atrocious acts. San Diego Sector Chief Patrol Agent Patricia McGurk-Daniel reiterated the commitment to delivering consequences to those who inflict harm in communities and emphasized zero tolerance for such actions.
Sentencing and Next Steps
The defendant, Cecilio Yonatan Jimenez-Bautista, is scheduled to be sentenced on January 29, 2024. The sentencing will play a crucial role in holding him accountable for his crimes and ensuring justice for the victim. It is imperative that the court imposes a significant punishment to send a strong message that such heinous acts will not be tolerated.
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Prosecuting Attorneys
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katherine McGrath and Edward Chang of the Southern District of California, along with Trial Attorney Danielle L. Hickman of the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section of the Criminal Division of the Department of Justice. These dedicated prosecutors are committed to seeking justice for the victim and ensuring that perpetrators of such crimes face the full consequences of their actions.
Contact Information
For media inquiries or additional information, please contact Director Kelly Thornton at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of California.
Telephone: (619) 546-9726 Email: Kelly.Thornton@usdoj.gov
The Southern District of California’s main office is located at: Federal Office Building 880 Front Street, Room 6293 San Diego, California 92101-8807
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