A Houston resident has been sentenced to federal prison for leading a conspiracy to smuggle illegal aliens, according to U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. Hosmel Vences, 29, pleaded guilty on May 22, 2024, and was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos to 48 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release.
During the sentencing hearing, Vences challenged his role as leader and objected to enhancements for recklessness and possession of weapons. However, Judge Ramos upheld the findings, concluding that Vences was aware of the firearms possessed by the drivers he recruited and was reckless in transporting illegal aliens. As the organizer, Vences was deemed accountable for the actions, including firearm possession and recklessness.
"The human smuggling business is all about money and nothing else," said Ganjei, emphasizing the disregard smugglers have for both the individuals they transport and the impact on communities. He praised the work of law enforcement in dismantling the conspiracy, leading to Vences' sentencing.
Vences was implicated in organizing the smuggling of at least 75 illegal aliens between August 16 and December 17, 2023. The investigation found that he recruited drivers across South Texas to transport aliens from Brownsville and Raymondville further into the U.S. Vences coordinated with drivers, overseeing trip details and paying them upon successful passage through checkpoints. Social media posts revealed his financial gains from the operation.
Vences will stay in custody until his transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility is arranged. The investigation was led by Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Griffith prosecuting.
This case is part of "Operation Take Back America," an initiative by the Department of Justice aimed at countering illegal immigration, dismantling cartels, and protecting communities.