Human Smuggling on the US-Mexico Border

 Posted on August 22, 2024 in Federal Crimes

As the U.S. nears a presidential election and immigration becomes an increasingly heated topic, people are paying attention to human smuggling. Politicians and prosecutors want to be seen as tough on crime, and the government is trying to crack down on smugglers.

Law enforcement does not mess around with these cases and convictions result in serious, long-lasting punishment. A Texas human smuggling defense attorney is your best shot at getting a positive outcome in your case.

Human Smuggling vs. Human Trafficking 

Human smuggling and human trafficking sound similar, but they have important differences. Human smuggling involves people who want to be moved from one place to another, at least initially. Smuggling provides a service to help move, such as false documents or transportation.

Human trafficking, on the other hand, is not voluntary. Trafficking involves people who are forced into manual labor, sex work, and other difficult jobs. Both smuggling and trafficking often result in people being assaulted, raped, and killed. Both of these acts are serious crimes that are prosecuted under federal law.

What is Human Smuggling? 

The law in Texas defines "smuggling of persons" as an act in which someone: 

• Uses a boat, plane, car, or any other means to move someone with the intent to:

• Hide that person from law enforcement

• Run away from law enforcement trying to make an arrest

• Helps or encourages someone to come into or remain in the U.S. by hiding that person from law enforcement

• Helps at least two people come onto agricultural land without consent from the owner

Penalties for Human Smuggling in Texas

The most basic kind of human smuggling is a third degree felony. However, it becomes a second-degree felony if: 

• The smuggling is done in a way that is likely to cause serious injury or death

• The person being smuggled is under 18

• The smuggling was done to earn money

• The smuggling was done using a gun

• The person being smuggled was seriously hurt or died

If you are convicted of a second degree felony, you face up to 20 years in prison. If you are convicted of a third degree felony, you face up to 10 years in prison. Punishments are more severe for smuggling multiple people, defendants with criminal records, and for other aggravating circumstances.

Call Our Texas Human Smuggling Defense Lawyer Right Away

If you have been arrested for human trafficking or smuggling, you need help. You may spend the rest of your life in jail if you are convicted. Call the San Antonio, TX human smuggling defense attorney with the Law Offices of Sam H. Lock. We will defend you against even the most severe human trafficking charges, fighting for your rights and freedom. You can schedule a private consultation by calling us 24/7 at 210-226-0965.