Derek Riojas, Human Smuggling, Texas 2024

Human Smuggling Charges Rock Texas Community

A Texas man was arrested on Friday near Dilley on human smuggling charges. The suspect, Derek Riojas, was pulled over by a U.S. Border Patrol agent on IH-35 after allegedly driving in a suspicious manner.

According to court documents, the agent observed several subjects in the rear of Riojas's vehicle and saw several subjects flee from the vehicle into nearby brush. Backup USBP agents apprehended the fleeing subjects, who were determined to be illegally present in the United States.

Riojas made his initial appearance today and is charged with one count of transporting illegal aliens, a federal crime punishable by up to 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The U.S. Border Patrol is investigating the case as part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that aims to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, eliminate cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect communities from violent crime.

Riojas's arrest is a stark reminder of the dangers of human smuggling and the importance of federal law enforcement agencies in combating this crime. The Western District of Texas is committed to holding those responsible for human smuggling accountable for their actions.

The case is ongoing, and Riojas is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the U.S. Border Patrol or local law enforcement agencies.

For more information, contact the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Texas.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdtx/pr/texas-man-arrested-human-smuggling-charges