Three Dominican nationals were convicted in federal court in Puerto Rico for violating U.S. laws related to alien smuggling. The United States District Court for Puerto Rico sentenced Jose Antonio De Leon-Pache, Melvin Diaz-Linas, and Mikilendy Espiritusanto-Martinez on January 13. The sentences were handed down following prosecution by the U.S. Border Patrol.
De Leon-Pache was sentenced to 37 months in prison for Count One and six months for Count Three, with both terms to be served concurrently. Diaz-Linas received 37 months for Count One and 12 months for Count Four, also to run concurrently. Espiritusanto-Martinez was given 24 months for Count One and six months for Count Five, with those sentences served at the same time.
The convictions resulted from a coordinated enforcement action along Puerto Rico’s northern coast, where authorities apprehended the three individuals as they attempted to transport people unlawfully into the United States.
“These convictions underscore our commitment to protecting the United States’ Caribbean border and holding accountable those who attempt to circumvent our immigration laws,” said Ramey Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jorge Chapa. “Through teamwork, technology, and dedication, our agencies continue to safeguard our communities and secure a prosperous future for all.”
The case involved cooperation among several agencies including the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Coast Guard, US Border Patrol, and Homeland Security Investigations.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) describes itself as America's largest law enforcement organization responsible for unified border management across land, air, and sea domains. According to CBP statements, its workforce of over 67,000 personnel enforces travel and trade regulations while aiming to support economic prosperity through innovation and collaboration.
For further information about local or regional CBP activities online, readers can view a complete list of CBP social media accounts.
