Texas Driver Charged After Officers Discover 23 Migrants in Truck Cab
Texas authorities recently made a significant human trafficking discovery after stopping a truck on the interstate in La Salle County. Officers uncovered 23 migrants hidden in the sleeper compartment of the vehicle during a routine roadside inspection.
Details of the Roadside Stop
On November 28, during Operation Lone Star, Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) officers observed a truck behaving suspiciously. The vehicle was seen traveling along the shoulder of the interstate, prompting a traffic stop for a license inspection.
Driver and His Actions
The driver, 24-year-old John David Amaya from Laredo, could not produce a valid commercial driver’s license. His driving behavior intensified the officer’s suspicion, leading to a police dog search of the truck.
Discovery of Migrants
The search resulted in the discovery of 23 individuals hidden inside the sleeper cab. Those found included migrants from various Central American countries:
- Nicaragua
- Guatemala
- El Salvador
- Honduras
- Mexico
Legal Consequences for the Driver
Amaya was arrested and is now facing 23 counts of human trafficking, a serious felony in Texas. The legal repercussions include potential penalties established by legislation signed by Governor Greg Abbott in 2023, which mandates a minimum 10-year prison sentence for human trafficking offenses.
Response from Authorities
DPS has since transferred the migrants to the U.S. Border Patrol for processing. This incident highlights ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking and enforce stricter regulations on commercial driving.
Continuous monitoring and enforcement initiatives by the Texas Department of Public Safety reflect the state’s commitment to addressing human trafficking and ensuring safe transportation practices.
