Bexar County Sheriff's Office Busts Human Smuggling Operation, Rescues 26 Victims

In a major crackdown, the Bexar County Sheriff's Office in Texas has apprehended seven suspects and rescued 26 victims from a human smuggling operation. The suspects face charges of human smuggling and organized crime, while the victims, who hailed from various Central and South American countries, received medical attention and secured housing.

The Bexar County Sheriff's Office in Texas has successfully dismantled a human smuggling operation involving dozens of migrants, leading to the arrest of seven suspects and the rescue of 26 victims.

On Thursday, law enforcement officials received a tip and subsequently intercepted a long, goose-neck trailer traveling to a rural home outside San Antonio. The residence was described as an open-air shack, lacking essential amenities and sanitation.

Upon inspection, authorities discovered a large false compartment underneath the trailer, where 26 migrants were found confined in cramped and inhumane conditions. The victims, who came from Mexico, Honduras, Venezuela, and Guatemala, were safely secured and provided necessary medical care.

The suspects identified and charged in connection with the operation include Abeldaro Herrera, Rafael Mendoza, Cristobal Eduardo Deleon, Jose Marvin Hernandez, Mario Enrique Elizondo, Vanessa Castillo, and Ismael Hernandez. Herrera, Mendoza, and Deleon face 26 counts of human smuggling and additional charges of engaging in organized criminal activity.

Hernandez was charged with evading arrest, while Elizondo, Castillo, and Hernandez were charged with organized criminal activity. One migrant remained hospitalized for further treatment of dehydration and cardiac-related issues.

The sheriff's office seized several vehicles used by the suspects during the operation. US Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is assisting in the investigation.

Sheriff Javier Salazar confirmed the involvement of a cartel in the operation, stating that the discovery of multiple bulletproof vests and long rifles behind the residence was indicative of such activities.

The victims, who ranged in age from 18 to 54, were grateful for their rescue and expressed hope for a better future in the United States. The sheriff's office has released the suspects' mugshots, and the case is currently under investigation.

The Bexar County Sheriff's Office remains vigilant in its efforts to combat human smuggling and ensure the safety of its residents.