Man arrested in Waveland admits human smuggling
GULFORT, Miss. (AP) – A Mexican national arrested in Waveland has admitted smuggling people into the United States though he knew they did not have permission to enter the country.
The Sun Herald reports 41-year-old Roberto Esquivel-Alonso was arrested Nov. 15 when he was found with eight men and two boys who were traveling in a two-vehicle convoy. Federal prosecutors say seven were removed from the U.S. and three have been held pending prosecution.
Esquivel-Alonso, who is being held with no bond, pleaded guilty Monday before U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden.
Ozerden set sentencing for May 24.
Under a plea agreement, Esquivel-Alonso faces up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The guilty plea will not change his immigration status.
