Three U.S. Army soldiers stationed at Fort Cavazos in Texas have been arrested on charges related to human smuggling, according to U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas. The soldiers, identified as Emilio Mendoza Lopez, Angel Palma, and Enrique Jauregui, were apprehended after a vehicle driven by Palma was stopped by law enforcement in Presidio near the Mexican border. The vehicle was found to be carrying Mendoza Lopez, a Mexican national, and two Guatemalan nationals.
It is alleged that Mendoza Lopez and Palma traveled from Fort Cavazos to Presidio with the intention of picking up and transporting undocumented noncitizens. Jauregui is believed to have played a role as the recruiter and facilitator of the human smuggling operation. Evidence obtained from Palma's phone through a search warrant revealed messages indicating collaboration among the three soldiers in the smuggling scheme.
Mendoza Lopez was arrested at the scene of the traffic stop, while Palma, who attempted to flee, and Jauregui were apprehended at Fort Cavazos. Mendoza Lopez is currently being held without bail, awaiting further information from prosecutors. His attorney mentioned plans to review the case details and seek a bond for his client once more information is provided.
Palma and Jauregui, who are also in custody, are scheduled for their initial court appearance on Friday. Legal representation for the two soldiers has not been publicly disclosed. The military's response to the arrests and the status of the soldiers within the Army have not been confirmed at this time.
