Nicholas J. Ganjei United States Attorney for the Southern District of Texas | U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas has filed 277 cases related to border security from May 16-22, as announced by U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. The cases involve a range of immigration and related crimes, including human smuggling and illegal entry into the United States.
Among those charged are Rogelio Torres and William Rocael, two Mexican nationals with prior convictions who were found near Roma after being removed earlier this year. Roberto Martinez, previously sentenced for similar offenses, was also apprehended near Cuevitas. Additionally, five more individuals have been charged with illegal reentry after removal.
"All of these individuals could face up to 20 years in federal prison if convicted," according to the statement.
In one instance, Victor Manuel Herrera-Herrera admitted to entering the U.S. illegally in April 2024 without registering or being fingerprinted as required by law.
Furthermore, Cynthia Gabriela Muniz Carreon became the sixth person to admit involvement in a human smuggling conspiracy that led to a fatality. "All six face up to life in federal prison," the announcement states.
Other notable cases include Heriberto Marin-Hebert, sentenced to 36 months for cocaine distribution; Ramon Gustavo Alfaro Velez, receiving 135 months for smuggling methamphetamine and heroin; and Julian Alberto Soto, who received a 46-month sentence for human smuggling.
The initiative is part of Operation Take Back America, aimed at combating illegal immigration and transnational criminal organizations. It involves collaboration between multiple federal agencies including ICE - Homeland Security Investigations, Border Patrol, DEA, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, and others.
The Southern District of Texas covers a large area with over nine million residents across 43 counties. It remains one of the busiest districts in the nation due to its proximity to the border.
