Sergio Josue Palomera from Chula Vista was sentenced to 71 months in federal prison for smuggling undocumented immigrants, resulting in their deaths. The sentencing took place today in a San Diego federal court.
On October 22, 2024, Palomera picked up two undocumented immigrants near the U.S.–Mexico border in Otay Mesa. Border Patrol agents observed the pickup through remote video surveillance and pursued Palomera as he drove west on State Route 905. Despite initially appearing to comply with the agent's attempt to pull him over, Palomera accelerated through a red light and attempted to flee.
The pursuit ended when Palomera lost control of his vehicle while traveling over 110 miles per hour in a 65-mph zone. The car rolled over, resulting in the immediate death of one passenger who was ejected from the vehicle. The other passenger succumbed to injuries later that evening at a hospital.
U.S. District Judge Todd W. Robinson described the offense as “very aggravated,” noting its impact on families affected by the tragedy. "This crime has deprived a little girl of her mother, has deprived that little girl’s father of his wife, and has deprived another family of their son," said Judge Robinson during today's hearing.
U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon commented on the case: “This defendant treated human lives as disposable cargo - and two people paid the ultimate price. This sentence reflects the grave consequences of putting profit over people. We will continue to hold smugglers accountable for the death and suffering their crimes inflict.”
Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jeffrey Stalnaker added: “We are glad Mr. Palomera will be held accountable for his irresponsible and senseless actions.” He emphasized the risks involved with relying on human smugglers.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David Fawcett prosecuted this case under Case Number: 24cr2466 against Sergio Josue Palomera, aged 23 from Chula Vista, CA.
Palomera faced charges under Title 8, U.S.C., Section 1324(a)(1)(A)(ii) and (B)(iv), which involve transportation of certain aliens resulting in death with penalties including death or life imprisonment and fines up to $250,000.
The United States Border Patrol investigated this case alongside California Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) as part of Operation Take Back America—a nationwide initiative aimed at combating illegal immigration and transnational criminal organizations following Executive Order 14159 by President Trump.
