A New York woman has admitted her involvement in a human smuggling conspiracy that resulted in the deaths of a family of four, including two young children, in the St. Lawrence River. Janet Terrance, 45, from Hogansburg, pleaded guilty to her role alongside co-conspirators Dakota Montour and Kawisiiostha Celecia Sharrow.
Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon stated, "The defendant and her coconspirators — fueled by greed, indifference, and recklessness — smuggled aliens via vehicle and boat across the U.S.-Canada border in dangerous weather conditions." She emphasized that dismantling such transnational criminal organizations is a priority for the Department of Justice.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel Hanlon remarked on the tragedy: "A family of four died because a smuggling organization put them in harm’s way for profit."
According to court documents, Terrance collaborated with an organization operating on the Akwesasne Mohawk Indian Reservation and Cornwall, Ontario. This group regularly transported individuals from various countries into the United States using vehicles and boats.
In March 2023, Terrance was involved in transporting a Romanian family across the border under hazardous weather conditions. The family's boat capsized during this attempt, leading to their deaths.
Special Agent Erin Keegan commented on the incident's impact: "The tragic deaths of two innocent, unknowing toddlers and their parents underscore the devastating impacts of alien smuggling."
Montour faces multiple charges related to conspiracy and alien smuggling resulting in death. He could receive life imprisonment for his actions. Sharrow and Terrance also face significant penalties for their roles.
Acting AMPS Chief Ranatiiostha Swamp noted efforts to combat illegal activities: "By working closely with Homeland Security on this investigation, we are enhancing efforts to combat human smuggling."
The investigation was extensive, involving numerous agencies including HSI Massena and international partners. Trial Attorney Jenna E. Reed and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Stitt are handling prosecution under the Extraterritorial Criminal Travel Strike Force program.