thebigp

—joe messina—3/24/24—printed off 3/27/24
The incident occurred in January when Campos was apprehended for attempting to smuggle seven migrants into the U.S.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California provided details about the event, highlighting how Campos and three of the migrants he was guiding tried to evade Border Patrol agents by running. Still, it ended up falling into the Tijuana River during their escape, requiring rescue by San Diego lifeguards.
The press release further explained that sewer tubes connecting the United States and Mexico are typically equipped with grates to prevent unauthorized entry into the U.S. However, during heavy rainfall, these grates are sometimes opened to allow water passage without damage. Taking advantage of this situation caused by heavy rain in the area at that time, Campos exploited the open grates to facilitate the illegal entry of immigrants into the United States.
Campos confessed to assisting the group in crossing the border in exchange for a sum of $6,000. This act of human smuggling drew strong condemnation from U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath, who emphasized how such activities prioritize financial gain over human safety. McGrath expressed gratitude for law enforcement’s swift intervention and local lifeguards’ timely assistance, which ultimately prevented any loss of life. As a consequence of his actions, Campos now faces a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison along with a fine amounting to $250,000. His sentencing is scheduled for June 17, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., presided over by U.S. District Judge Linda Lopez.
This case sheds light on the dangers associated with human smuggling operations and underscores the critical role played by law enforcement agencies in combating such illicit activities. The incident serves as a cautionary tale regarding the severe legal repercussions faced by those involved in human trafficking and highlights the importance of upholding i*********n l*ws and safeguarding border security. Kevin Noe Campos Villa’s guilty plea stands as a stark reminder of the illicit practices carried out by t***snational smuggling networks and underscores the need for continued vigilance and enforcement efforts to combat such criminal enterprises effectively.