Posted: 9/9/2005 12:59:34 AM EDT
Soldiers suspected of smuggling immigrantsChris Roberts El Paso Times September 8, 2005 www.elpasotimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20050908/NEWS/509080344/1001Two Fort Bliss soldiers are being investigated on suspicion of trying to smuggle undocumented immigrants.
The soldiers, Pfc. Miguel Angel Diaz Roman and Pfc. Kenneth Earl David III, were driving in two vehicles when one of them was pulled over by a Columbus, N.M., police officer for having no rear license plate, officials said Wednesday.
"It appeared both vehicles were transporting undocumented immigrants," said U.S. Border Patrol spokesman Doug Mosier, adding that five Mexican nationals were identified.
A total of $3,500 was found in the vehicles, and an occupant said they were being charged $1,400 each to be taken to Arizona, he said. According to police, David told an officer that he had been in Mexico for some dental work and was asked whether he would provide rides for the passengers.
Both soldiers are members of the 4-1 Cavalry at Fort Bliss, a post spokesman said. No military action is pending against the men because no charges have been filed, the spokesman said.
Mosier said it would be up to the U.S. attorney's office in Albuquerque to decide whether the case will be forwarded to a grand jury.
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