Alpine, Texas – In a significant bust, three soldiers from Fort Cavazos were arrested for their alleged roles in a conspiracy to smuggle undocumented noncitizens. The arrests followed a thorough investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents, with assistance from the U.S. Border Patrol and the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division.
On November 27, a U.S. Border Patrol agent attempted to stop a vehicle in Presidio, Texas. As the agent approached, the vehicle sped away, striking another Border Patrol vehicle and injuring an agent inside. The vehicle was eventually stopped by Presidio County sheriff’s deputies and police officers, leading to the apprehension of four individuals. Among them were three undocumented noncitizens—one Mexican national and two Guatemalan nationals—and Emilio Mendoza Lopez, who claimed to be a passenger.
The driver, identified as Angel Palma, fled the scene but was later found at a hotel in Odessa, Texas. Investigations revealed that Mendoza Lopez and Palma traveled from Fort Cavazos to Presidio to transport undocumented noncitizens. Enrique Jauregui, the third individual, is believed to be the recruiter and facilitator of the operation. Data from Palma’s phone confirmed the collaboration among the three soldiers.
Mendoza Lopez appeared in court on December 2, facing charges of harboring undocumented noncitizens. Palma and Jauregui are set to appear on December 6 in Waco, Texas, facing similar charges, along with assaulting a federal agent. Their sentences will be determined by a federal district court judge.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Cayton.