Henry Licona-Larios, Human Trafficking, Texas 2021

Smugglers Sentenced for Treating Humans Like Cattle

A federal judge in Houston handed down harsh sentences to five individuals who preyed on the desperation of undocumented aliens.

Henry Licona-Larios, 34, a Honduran national, was the ringleader of the operation. He pleaded guilty to charges of human trafficking and was sentenced to 41 months in federal prison. Licona-Larios was also ordered to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment.

The investigation, which began in April 2021, uncovered a stash house in Southwest Houston where 97 undocumented aliens were being held in deplorable conditions. The room had deadbolts on the doors, preventing escape, and the males were forced to wear only their undergarments. One of the victims was threatened with being ‘put in four pieces of wood’ if he didn’t pay the smugglers.

Licona-Larios’ accomplices, Marina Garcia-Diaz, 24, Marcelo Garcia-Palacios, 23, Kevin Licona-Lopez, 27, and Marco Baca-Perez, 22, were also sentenced to 30 months in prison. All five individuals are expected to face removal proceedings.

U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani stated, ‘You cannot trust a human smuggler. Giving them money will put your life in danger.’ He added, ‘These five people preyed on the desperation of foreign nationals hoping to get into the country. This sentence makes it clear – we will not allow the victimization of people for profit.’

The investigation was led by Homeland Security Investigations, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen M. Lansden prosecuting the case. The sentences were handed down by U.S. District Judge Keith Ellison, who noted the seriousness of the offense and the inhumane treatment of the undocumented aliens.

The case is a stark reminder of the dangers of human trafficking and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their crimes. It also highlights the bravery of the victims who came forward and the dedication of law enforcement agencies who worked tirelessly to bring the smugglers to justice.

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