ICE thwarts major smuggling event; Texas woman sentenced to 11 years, ordered to pay over $955K
DEL RIO, Texas — A San Antonio woman was sentenced Jan. 30 in federal court following an investigation by ICE Homeland Security Investigations’ Eagle Pass office. Erica Aracely Carmona, 36, was sentenced by a federal judge to 11 years in prison and ordered to pay $955,350 for conspiracy to transport illegal aliens resulting in death. She was arrested Aug. 23, 2022, and pleaded guilty Dec. 19, 2022.
“The loss of life in this case is a stark reminder that human smuggling is not just a crime — it is a deadly threat to our communities and those seeking a better future,” said HSI San Antonio acting Special Agent in Charge John A. Pasciucco. “Carmona’s sentencing demonstrates that HSI and our partners will relentlessly pursue and dismantle criminal organizations that prioritize profit over human life. We will not tolerate those who exploit and endanger vulnerable individuals, and we will continue to bring the full weight of justice against anyone responsible for these events.”
A “tow-behind” trailer used by the organization to smuggle illegal aliens from Eagle Pass to San Antonio. The trailers were custom made by alien smuggling organization member, Evan John Herrera, to conceal the illegal aliens in route.
Federal law enforcement interdicted an alien smuggling operation that used the “tow-behind” trailer.
The exterior of the tractor-trailer that was to be used by the organization to smuggle illegal aliens from Eagle Pass to San Antonio. The trailer was custom built to hold as many as 40 illegal aliens, and it was retrofitted with air conditioning in the false trap compartment. The organization had graduated from the “tow-behind” trailers to 18-wheelers to transport the illegal aliens.
The top of the trailer that was to be used by the organization to smuggle illegal aliens from Eagle Pass to San Antonio.
The interior of the false compartment that was to be used by the organization to smuggle illegal aliens from Eagle Pass to San Antonio.
Source: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE.gov)
