Dallas, TX asked in Criminal Law, Immigration Law and Federal Crimes for Texas

Q: I recently was charged for human “smuggling” in Texas passing the checkpoint in Zavala County, Texas. Please help

I don’t consider this to be smuggling since I didn’t gain no money and I didn’t cross anyone over the border the illegal aliens were already in Texas I just had to pick them up. And now I got a charge for this and pending court date.

2 Lawyer Answers
Alexander Ivakhnenko
Alexander Ivakhnenko
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Wheeling, IL

A: It is irrelevant whether you received any payment for your activities or whether the foreign nationals were in the United States: these are not the requisite elements of the current criminal charge you are facing, witch has a possibility of a prison sentence upon conviction.

You must immediately discuss your criminal case and it’s ramifications with an experienced licensed criminal case counsel of your choice.

John Cucci Jr. and Kiele Linroth Pace agree with this answer

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John Cucci Jr.
John Cucci Jr. pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Houston, TX

A: Sorry to tell you that smuggling does not have to include traveling over a border. Simply kidnapping or transporting someone without their consent is a crime. The manner in which you handle the person you illegally transport, will determine how hard you will be punished.

I would need more information to properly advise you of the way I can help.

Let me know more details and I can help you and advise you.

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