Luis Morales-Melendez, Transporting Aliens Resulting in Death, Texas 2019

LAREDO, Texas

A 33-year-old Guatemalan man is now headed to federal prison after admitting to transporting aliens resulting in death, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Luis Morales-Melendez, a Guatemalan national who illegally entered the United States himself, pleaded guilty on December 2, 2019.

Today, U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo handed him a 48-month sentence. Morales-Melendez is not a U.S. citizen and is expected to face removal proceedings following the sentence. At the hearing, the court noted that while there's no indication Morales-Melendez intended for the death to happen, he was still responsible for the safety of those crossing the river.

"Illegally entering the U.S. is not only a crime, it can be life-threatening," said chief Matthew Hudak of Border Patrol (BP)– Laredo Sector. "The harsh terrain and conditions along the border are inherently dangerous, and are made worse by the callous and reckless actions of smugglers that put lives at risk."

On August 22, 2019, authorities encountered 12 individuals near Zebra Creek in Laredo. The investigation determined they were all undocumented aliens who had illegally entered the country by crossing the Rio Grande river. Several identified Morales-Melendez as the guide who led them into the United States. Another man had been a part of the group, but had died along the way.

The investigation revealed the victim had been struggling in the water, but Morales-Melendez did not offer aid or use a rope to help him. Morales-Melendez denied hearing anyone call for help. While some life jackets were available, there were not enough for everyone. The victim's body was recovered on the Mexican side of the river the following day.

Morales-Melendez admitted to illegally entering the United States with the group and acting as the foot guide on the American side of the river. As part of his plea, Morales-Mendez acknowledged receiving a discount on his smuggling fee in exchange for acting as the foot guide once the group crossed into the United States.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdtx/pr/guatemalan-man-sentenced-role-immigration-event-leading-death