McALLEN, Texas – In a shocking case of human exploitation, a local couple has been sentenced for forcing a victim to work against her will. Eduardo Javier Gomez, 32, and his former partner Margarita Alvarez, 42, pleaded guilty on March 1, 2023, to benefiting from the victim’s free labor.
According to court documents, Gomez and Alvarez exploited the victim, who had been illegally smuggled to the Rio Grande Valley. The victim was forced to work as a nanny and housekeeper in the couple’s home, and was also made to work at a fireworks stand operated by Gomez. The victim was never paid for her work.
Law enforcement discovered the victim’s situation after receiving a tip. Authorities were able to locate and rescue the victim two days after learning of her situation. Gomez was holding the victim against her will and was requesting further payment from her family members in exchange for releasing her.
U.S. District Chief Judge Randy Crane has now imposed a 70-month-term of imprisonment for Gomez, while Alvarez received two years of probation. Gomez must also serve three years of supervised release following his sentence.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexa D. Parcell, Sherri Zack, and Kim Leo. Gomez has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Gomez and Alvarez’s actions are a stark reminder of the prevalence of human trafficking in our communities. It is essential that we continue to work together to prevent such crimes and bring those responsible to justice.
Defendant: Eduardo Javier Gomez
Criminal Charges: Benefiting from a victim’s free labor
City and State: Edinburg, Texas
Exact Date: March 1, 2023 (sentencing)
Sentence: 70 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release
Key Facts
- State: Texas
- Category: Human Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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