A Simi Valley couple has been arrested for allegedly exploiting asylum-seeking immigrants from Latin America. Carolina Rojas, 50, and Jairo John Gastelo, 45, face charges including conspiracy to commit forced labor and forced labor itself. Additional charges against Rojas include trafficking related to forced labor and other immigration violations.
The indictment accuses the couple of smuggling individuals into the United States and coercing them into domestic work without pay at their residence. The victims were reportedly made to believe that their labor was in exchange for housing.
Acting United States Attorney Joseph McNally commented on the case: “As described in the indictment, the defendants smuggled individuals into the United States and exploited them for their own financial gain.” He emphasized the importance of enforcing immigration laws to combat human trafficking.
HSI Los Angeles Special Agent in Charge Eddy Wang added: “Today’s indictment shows the great lengths that the defendants went through to enrich themselves off smuggled aliens.” He reaffirmed HSI's commitment to addressing labor trafficking.
According to court documents, from November 2021 until March 2024, Rojas allegedly facilitated travel arrangements for victims from Latin American countries. Upon arrival in California, they were transported to Simi Valley where they were compelled to provide childcare and other domestic services without compensation.
The indictment further alleges that Rojas arranged employment at a local McDonald’s for some victims as part of a scheme to collect money owed for smuggling fees. It is claimed she also helped procure fraudulent identification documents for job applications.
If convicted, both defendants could face significant prison sentences. Indictments are accusations only; all defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Assistant United States Attorneys K. Afia Bondero and Matt Coe-Odess are handling prosecution efforts.