Armando Fierro Jr. : Man pleads guilty in migrants-for-drugs probe

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Migrants-for-drugs investigation guilty plea
2. Drug trafficking migrant plea deal

Armando Fierro Jr. pleads guilty to migrant smuggling after being caught picking up individuals near Mount Cristo Rey in Sunland Park, New Mexico. Border agents intercepted him as he attempted to transport migrants in an SUV to a stash house. Fierro initially claimed he was helping a friend by picking up relatives, but evidence on his cellphone revealed otherwise. He now faces charges of transporting illegal aliens and aiding and abetting. The mountain, a hotspot for illegal border crossings, presents challenges for law enforcement due to its steep terrain. Sunland Park officials report frequent incidents of migrants passing through and injuries sustained while crossing the border.

Man Pleads Guilty to Migrant Smuggling Near Mount Cristo Rey

In a surprising turn of events, a man initially claiming to be giving a ride to a friend’s relatives near Mount Cristo Rey in Sunland Park, New Mexico, has pleaded guilty to migrant smuggling. Armando Fierro Jr. admitted in court that he knew the individuals he was transporting were migrants he intended to take to a stash house, before being intercepted by U.S. Border Patrol agents.

Border Patrol Intercepts Smuggling Operation

Border Patrol agents monitoring the area observed four individuals crossing over from Mexico and entering a green SUV waiting on the U.S. side of the border. When agents attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver, later identified as Fierro, failed to comply, leading to a felony stop by law enforcement.

Cellphone Evidence Points to Smuggling Operation

Further investigation revealed incriminating evidence on Fierro’s cellphone, including a conversation with an individual instructing him to “pick up some boxes.” In Border Patrol terminology, “boxes” refer to migrants in need of transportation. Fierro claimed that he was offered drugs in exchange for transporting the individuals, indicating a deeper involvement in the smuggling operation.

Legal Ramifications and Mountain Challenges

By pleading guilty to transporting illegal aliens and aiding and abetting, Fierro faces potential prison time and fines. The incident highlights the ongoing challenge that Mount Cristo Rey poses to border enforcement, with its difficult terrain and proximity to the border making it a hotspot for smuggling activities.

Community Concerns and Border Patrol Response

Local authorities in Sunland Park have reported numerous instances of migrants passing through private property and suspicious vehicles picking up individuals near the border. Additionally, the Sunland Park Fire Department frequently responds to calls of migrants injured while attempting to cross the border wall or navigate Mount Cristo Rey.

Significance of Mount Cristo Rey

Mount Cristo Rey, known for its iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer, attracts pilgrims and visitors alike, but also serves as a hub for illegal border crossings and smuggling operations. The mountain’s unique position along the border presents ongoing challenges for law enforcement and community safety.

As the case unfolds, authorities continue to monitor the area for further smuggling activities and work to address the complex issues surrounding border security and migrant transportation near Mount Cristo Rey.