Jorge Luis Monsivais Jr., Fatal Human Smuggling, Texas 2021

A 360-month prison sentence has been handed down to an Eagle Pass man for his role in a fatal human smuggling attempt that claimed the lives of five people. Jorge Luis Monsivais Jr., 23, was behind the wheel of a Suburban that was carrying 13 undocumented noncitizens when Border Patrol attempted to stop it on May 11, 2021.

According to court documents, Monsivais tried to evade law enforcement but eventually crashed the vehicle on Highway 85 outside of Big Wells. The crash resulted in the deaths of four people at the scene, while a fifth person succumbed to their injuries en route to the hospital. Several others sustained severe injuries, including broken necks, hips, and head trauma.

The U.S. Attorney’s office praised the sentencing, stating that it sends a clear message that those who make a living by unlawfully transporting undocumented noncitizens will be held accountable. ‘Smuggling people is exceedingly dangerous for all involved and for our communities in which these operations are taking place,’ said U.S. Attorney Ashley C. Hoff.

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) also weighed in on the case, emphasizing the risks that people face when they put their lives in the hands of smugglers. ‘Those responsible for illegally moving people through our country place personal profit ahead of public safety,’ said Special Agent in Charge Shane Folden.

Monsivais pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including conspiracy to transport illegal aliens resulting in death, conspiracy to harbor illegal aliens, and illegal alien transportation resulting in death. HSI investigated the case, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Hail prosecuting the matter.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of human smuggling and the importance of holding those responsible accountable for their actions. As the U.S. Attorney’s office continues to work with law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute human smugglers, the community can rest assured that those who put profits over people will face the full weight of the law.

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