⏱ 2 min read
Tomas Quino Canil, a 38-year-old Guatemalan national, has pleaded guilty to smuggling charges related to a 2021 crash in Chiapas, Mexico, that killed over 50 people and injured more than 100. The crash occurred on December 9, 2021, when a tractor-trailer packed with at least 160 illegal aliens crashed near Tuxtla Guiterrez. Quino Canil and others had recruited Guatemalan nationals, collected payments, and arranged transportation to the United States.
The conspirators charged thousands of dollars to smuggle people into the US and even provided scripted language for unaccompanied minors to use if caught by US immigration authorities. The guilty plea marks the final indictment in the case, with all six defendants now held accountable for their roles in the deadly smuggling conspiracy.
US Attorney Aaron Reitz stated that the defendants had shown a callous disregard for human life, treating the smuggled individuals like cargo. Quino Canil’s guilty plea brings closure to one of the deadliest human smuggling tragedies in recent memory.
The case highlights the dangers of human smuggling and the need for continued efforts to combat this crime. The DOJ and other law enforcement agencies will continue to pursue those who profit from human suffering, no matter where they hide or how long it takes to bring them to justice.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Human Trafficking
- Defendant: Texas
- Location: TX
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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