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The Department of Justice of the United States reported this Thursday that a Cuban citizen residing in Florida was sentenced to 41 months in prison for his involvement in a conspiracy to traffick immigrants, following a dangerous high-speed chase in southern New Mexico.
On its official website, the agency detailed that Omar Ozuna-Berneda, 49 years old, was detected on the night of July 15, 2024, by agents of the Border Patrol driving a white truck on New Mexico State Road 26, near Deming.
His vehicle had previously been identified as part of a group of trucks used in failed attempts at human trafficking. When trying to be stopped, Ozuna-Berneda took off on a high-speed, risky chase, even veering into oncoming traffic to avoid tire deflation devices and driving along the roadside.
After a 22-mile chase, he abandoned the vehicle near the city limits of Hatch, New Mexico, and fled on foot, the department reported.
His truck was blocking both lanes of traffic, and upon inspecting it, the agents discovered 31 undocumented immigrants locked inside the trailer, including an 8-year-old boy who was traveling alone.
He also added that Ozuna-Berneda was later apprehended while trying to hide in the underbrush several kilometers away from where he left the vehicle.
Sentence and repercussions
During the interrogation, the accused admitted to having transported immigrants from Las Cruces to Albuquerque in exchange for a fee.
“Human trafficking endangers the lives of both immigrants and the public, as well as law enforcement,” stated interim federal prosecutor Holland S. Kastrin on the matter.
"We are committed to enforcing our immigration laws, dismantling trafficking networks, and prosecuting those who endanger so many lives for their own financial gain," emphasized the Department of Justice.
The acting chief of the Border Patrol, Walter N. Slosar, added: "If you aid in violating U.S. immigration laws by attempting to traffic in persons, we will hold you accountable to the fullest extent of the law."
After serving his sentence, Ozuna-Berneda will be subjected to three years of supervised release. The case was investigated by the U.S. Border Patrol, with support from the Doña Ana County Sheriff's Office and the Bureau of Land Management. Assistant District Attorney Joni Autrey Stahl is in charge of the prosecution.
Frequently asked questions about human trafficking and the situation of Cuban migrants in the U.S.
What was the sentence for the Cuban Omar Ozuna-Berneda for human trafficking?
Omar Ozuna-Berneda was sentenced to 41 months in prison for his involvement in a conspiracy for human trafficking in southern New Mexico. Additionally, after serving his sentence, he will face three years of supervised release.
What risks does human trafficking pose for migrants?
Human trafficking jeopardizes the lives of immigrants, as they are often transported under dangerous and precarious conditions. Furthermore, these activities also threaten public safety and law enforcement.
What actions is the U.S. government taking against human trafficking?
The U.S. government is committed to dismantling human trafficking networks and prosecuting those involved in these illegal activities. This includes cooperation among various agencies, such as the Border Patrol and the Sheriff’s Office, to investigate and carry out arrests.
How does the migration situation affect Cubans arriving in the U.S.?
Cubans arriving in the U.S. face deportation proceedings if they enter the country illegally. Despite the risks, the lack of opportunities in Cuba continues to motivate many to attempt to reach U.S. soil.
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