A former member of the Mexican National Guard has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States, according to an announcement by U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. Luis Enrique Guzman Pablo, 33, was assigned to customs duties in Matamoros, Mexico, where he inspected vehicles leaving the United States for Mexico.
Between May and July 2024, Pablo facilitated the entry of stolen vehicles into Mexico in exchange for payment. His role involved ensuring that these vehicles passed through inspection without being stopped.
In one case from May 2024, Pablo helped co-conspirators export a stolen Chevrolet Trailblazer through the Veteran’s International Bridge in Brownsville to Matamoros for compensation.
"No matter what side of the border or what country they represent, we expect all authorities to do their duties and respect the law," said Ganjei. "Pablo abused his position in order to enrich himself, and The Southern District of Texas will continue to ensure those like him face the appropriate consequences."
Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane is scheduled to impose sentencing on May 13. Pablo faces up to five years in prison and a possible maximum fine of $250,000. He remains in custody until then.
The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations and FBI with assistance from Customs and Border Protection and Mexico's Fiscalia General de la Republica.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation aimed at dismantling high-level criminal organizations threatening the United States through a multi-agency approach led by prosecutors. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Roberto Lopez Jr. and Sarina D. DiPiazza are handling prosecution duties.