A smuggler, Cecilio Yonatan Jimenez-Bautista of Mexico, has conceded to sexually assaulting a 17-year-old migrant during her journey to the United States. Citing the United States Department of Justice, Jimenez-Bautista has pleaded guilty to smuggling charges and confessed in court to committing the felonious act against her.
Between March 15, 2022 and June 29, 2022, Jimenez-Bautista was reportedly involved in guiding a minimum of 25 undocumented migrants across the US-Mexico border. Smuggling charges varied from $5,000 to $9,500 per person. While traveling in a group of 10 undocumented migrants from Tijuana, Mexico to Chula Vista, California in June 2022, the perpetrator, alongside another individual, separated the 17-year-old girl and savagely assaulted her, inflicting grave physical harm.
U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath and Special Agent Chad Plantz of HSI San Diego strongly condemned the actions of Jimenez-Bautista. McGrath depicted his offense as a repugnant display of the smuggler's indifference towards anything other than profit. Plantz praised the unified efforts of law enforcement which led swiftly to convict and investigate violent human smugglers capable of committing such a horrific crime in bypassing immigration laws.
The magnitude of the problem is further emphasized knowing the perpetrator was involved in the smuggling of at least 25 other undocumented individuals. This widespread illicit activity which thrives off exploiting migrants disrespects the most fundamental human rights principles.
Jimenez-Bautista's sentencing is scheduled for January 29, 2024, a significant step towards justice for the young survivor.
