Yesterday, federal search warrants were executed at five Colt Grill restaurants and 12 residences in two states. This action followed a three-year investigation into labor exploitation, resulting in a federal indictment against four individuals in Arizona.
The indictment, issued on May 27, 2025, by a grand jury in Phoenix, names Robert and Brenda Clouston of northern Arizona and Luis Pedro Rogel-Jaimes and Iris Romero-Molina, both Mexican nationals residing illegally in Cottonwood, Arizona. They face charges including Conspiracy to Transport Illegal Aliens and Pattern and Practice of Knowingly Employing Unauthorized Aliens.
According to the indictment, the Cloustons operated four Colt Grill locations in northern Arizona and one in Foley, Alabama. In September 2022, they allegedly devised a plan with Rogel-Jaimes and Romero-Molina to create R&R AZ Cleaning as a staffing company for the restaurants. Undocumented workers were hired through this company and paid below minimum wage without overtime compensation.
On July 15, all four accused were arrested without incident. Law enforcement also detained several undocumented individuals for immigration violations during the warrant execution.
"Cooperation is the cornerstone for law enforcement in Arizona," stated United States Attorney Timothy Courchaine. "The United States Attorney’s Office is grateful to HSI for their hard work on this investigation."
Ray Rede from HSI Arizona emphasized the success due to coordinated efforts: "This multiyear case involving several federal charges is a testament of our commitment."
Yavapai County Sheriff David Rhodes praised the collaboration: "Coordinated, multi-agency enforcement actions like this one are essential to protecting our communities."
If convicted of conspiracy-related charges or employing unauthorized aliens knowingly, penalties include up to 10 years imprisonment or fines up to $250,000.
This case falls under Operation Take Back America aimed at combating illegal immigration and organized crime.
HSI leads the federal investigation with assistance from DOL-OIG and IRS Criminal Investigation Phoenix Field Office. The Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office supported warrant executions. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for District of Arizona handles prosecution.
An indictment indicates criminal charges but presumes innocence until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
