On June 12, the Del Rio Sector Border Patrol Tactical Unit (BORTAC) and Border Patrol Search, Trauma and Rescue (BORSTAR) operators, supported by elements from the National Special Operations Group out of El Paso, arrested a group of 23 illegal aliens, including the smuggler.

The group consisted mostly of Honduran family units, including small children. The smuggler was arrested after he was caught ferrying the group across the river in a raft.

All subjects were taken to the Eagle Pass South Station and processed in accordance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection guidelines.

The smuggler has been arrested multiple times by the U.S. Border Patrol and was deported in April 2008.

He faces a charge of 8 USC § 1324 – alien smuggling, which carries a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison.

All individuals apprehended by the U.S. Border Patrol undergo criminal history checks utilizing multiple databases, including the use of biometrics, to ensure those with criminal history are positively identified regardless of their immigration status.

The Del Rio Border Patrol Sector is part of the Joint Task Force-West South Texas Corridor, which leverages federal, state and local resources to combat transnational criminal organizations.

To report suspicious activity call the Del Rio Sector’s toll free number at 1-866-511-8727.