Two Honduran men have been sentenced to three years in prison for their involvement in an international human smuggling operation. Hennessy Devon Cooper Zelaya, 29, and Rudy Jackson Hernandez, 38, both from Utila, Honduras, were convicted of conspiring to illegally bring Honduran nationals into the United States for financial gain.
The scheme involved transporting individuals from Honduras to the U.S. via two vessels, the Masita III and the M/V Pop. Upon reaching Louisiana, the individuals were taken further into the U.S., where some found unauthorized employment. The defendants served as crew members on these voyages.
In February 2022, Cooper Zelaya and Hernandez attempted to smuggle 23 Honduran nationals aboard the M/V Pop. The vessel encountered engine trouble en route to Cocodrie, Louisiana. A chartered boat was dispatched with fuel but was intercepted by the U.S. Coast Guard before reaching its destination. Authorities discovered 24 kilograms of cocaine onboard.
The lead defendant in this case, Carl Allison, pleaded guilty in December 2023 to similar charges and conspiracy to distribute cocaine hydrochloride. Three other co-conspirators—Darrel Martinez, Josue Flores-Villeda, and Lenord Cooper—have also pleaded guilty for their roles in the conspiracy.
Another individual involved in this case is Olvin Javier Velasquez Maldonado, who was extradited from Honduras and faces charges related to drug distribution. His trial is scheduled for June 16.
Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division announced these developments alongside Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson for the Eastern District of Louisiana and Special Agent Eric DeLaune of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New Orleans Field Office.
The investigation received support from multiple agencies including HSI offices across several states and various law enforcement bodies such as U.S. Customs and Border Protection and state police departments.
This case is part of Joint Task Force Alpha's efforts against human smuggling networks affecting border security across several countries including Mexico and Central America. It also falls under initiatives like Operation Take Back America which aims to combat illegal immigration and dismantle criminal organizations threatening public safety.
