A Texas man is facing federal charges after being accused of human smuggling following an arrest by U.S. Border Patrol agents near Dilley, Texas. Derek Riojas, allegedly seen driving erratically on IH-35 last Friday, was found with several individuals attempting to flee from his vehicle upon stopping, triggering suspicions of unlawful activity.
During the incident, a Border Patrol agent noted individuals in the back of Riojas’s vehicle, leading to the arrest of the fleeing passengers by backup agents, who determined that they were illegally present in the United States. An initial court appearance has placed Riojas under the spotlight, charged with one count of transporting illegal aliens— a crime carrying a possible 10-year prison sentence if conviction is handed down.
The U.S. Department of Justice announced the arrest of U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas, underscoring the seriousness of the charges. The case forms part of a larger national initiative known as Operation Take Back America, intended to combat illegal immigration, dismantle cartels, and curb violence perpetrated by transnational criminal organizations.
While the defendant awaits his day in court, the government emphasizes that the charges against Riojas are merely allegations and he retains the presumption of innocence until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The U.S. Border Patrol is continuing its investigation into the situation, which has shed another light on the ongoing battles at the country's southern borders.
