San Antonio Illegal Alien Smuggling Defense Attorneys
Last updated on July 10, 2024
Immigration is a hot issue, especially in Texas near the border with Mexico. Alien smuggling in particular is a large issue, and it can be charged as a white collar crime. These charges can be brought against anyone caught assisting non-citizens crossing the border illegally. This includes conspiring, transportation, harboring, transporting and even encouraging illegal border crossing and immigration. Even unknowingly transporting an alien across the border can result in a criminal charge.
These types of crimes often can be more vigorously pursued, charged and prosecuted based on the political climate. At Ramos & Del Cueto, we have seen that police are making a high number of arrests for alien smuggling in San Antonio and South Texas.
What Is Operation Lone Star?
Operation Lone Star began in 2021; it is the state’s attempt to address illegal immigration, including the smuggling of undocumented immigrants. The operation has increased funding and allocated resources from both state and federal sources to seek out criminal activity near the border between Texas and Mexico. In addition to smuggling, agents are looking for things like criminal trespassing, human trafficking, transporting undocumented immigrants and illegal entry.
It is important to note that multiple people can face charges for illegal alien smuggling, or the act of assisting people in entering the country without proper paperwork. Not only does the person who came across the border risk arrest or deportation, but those charged with human trafficking could also face serious legal ramifications, such as jail time and fees – even if they are a U.S. citizen and it was never illegal for them to cross into Texas. From Kinney to Del Rio, those facing such criminal charges must know what defense options they have.
What Is The Impact Of Operation Lone Star?
Operation Lone Star has certainly led to arrests, although it has not stopped immigration. Some reports claim that there are thousands of undocumented people coming across the border every day. In fact, the federal government recently restricted the number of asylum cases they would take per day because these were so common.
Recent reports show that more than 33,000 people face criminal charges under Operation Lone Star, and more than 420,000 illegal immigrants have been apprehended. Over 30,000 people are facing federal felony charges. Some illegal drugs, such as fentanyl, have occasionally been recovered at the border. Fentanyl is a dangerous Schedule II substance because even a very small dose can be fatal.
Texas has also been transporting illegal immigrants to other parts of the country, sending thousands of people to locations like Los Angeles, New York City and Washington, D.C. This bussing program is an aspect of Operation Lone Star that doesn’t necessarily stop immigration from occurring, but that does mean new immigrants may find themselves in Chicago or Denver instead of Laredo or Val Verde.
Consequences Of A First-Time Offense
Like other crimes, the consequences of the charges associated with illegal alien smuggling can change based on the circumstances and number of offenses.
In Texas, even a first-time offense can result in 10 years in jail and fines of up to $250,000. These types of charges carry a particularly high risk of jail time. The penalties can often vary based on whether or not there was financial gain, or any bodily harm caused.
What Should You Do?
These crimes are highly pursued and can be difficult to defend. Many convictions depend on post-arrest statements, cellphone records and other materials used to prove intent and knowledge. If you’ve been arrested for an alien smuggling crime, it’s crucial that you get the right representation. You need to ask for a lawyer as soon as possible.
Our attorneys at Ramos & Del Cueto, have nearly 100 years of combined experience serving the people of San Antonio and South Texas. They are well-versed in criminal defense, so we have a deep understanding of these matters. Our lawyers have spent decades in practice learning how to effectively represent people in these types of difficult situations.
If you need answers and help with a case involving illegal alien smuggling, contact us as soon as you can. We can protect you and your freedom. Contact us by calling 210-761-6004 or using our online contact form to find out how we can help.