Rachel C. Hernandez Acting United States Attorney for the District of Arizona | U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona
Nathan Isaiah Solano, a 23-year-old resident of Tolleson, was found guilty by a federal jury on charges related to the illegal transportation of aliens. The verdict, delivered after a three-day trial overseen by United States District Judge James A. Soto, includes one count of conspiracy to transport illegal aliens and two counts of transportation of illegal aliens for profit. Solano's sentencing is scheduled for May 21, 2025.
The case dates back to September 19, 2023, when Solano was apprehended while driving on Arizona State Route 85 near the U.S.-Mexico border. He had picked up two individuals from the desert brush alongside the highway who later admitted to being illegal aliens. A foot guide assisted in loading them into Solano's Jeep before returning to Mexico.
Border Patrol agents initiated an immigration stop after observing Solano's vehicle and discovered the two individuals hidden in the rear cargo area. Despite Solano's claim that he was merely offering a ride to hitchhikers, the jury dismissed his defense and convicted him on all counts.
The investigation was conducted by Customs and Border Protection’s United States Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Micah Schmit and Jennifer Berman from the District of Arizona in Tucson prosecuted the case.
