TownTalk Media has learned that two Brownfield, Texas, residents have taken responsibility for their involvement in a conspiracy to transport illegal aliens, as announced by U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
According to federal court documents, on March 22, law enforcement observed a Ford Expedition navigating around a Border Patrol checkpoint near Laredo. The vehicle was driven by Mac’Quese Howard, 20, of Brownfield, with De Richardson Miller, 18, of Brownfield assisting with directions from the front passenger seat. During a traffic stop, authorities discovered three individuals who were in the country illegally, hidden in the back seat.
Both Miller and Howard confessed that their trip to Laredo was solely for the purpose of picking up these individuals and transporting them to San Antonio for compensation. Howard anticipated receiving a total of $5,000, which he intended to divide with Miller upon completing the transport.
U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña will determine the sentencing at a future date. Both individuals are facing the possibility of up to 10 years in federal prison and a maximum fine of $250,000. Howard remains in custody, while Miller has been released on bond pending the upcoming hearing.
The investigation was carried out by Border Patrol, with the case being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Homero Ramirez.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, an innovative nationwide initiative aimed at addressing illegal immigration, dismantling cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and enhancing community safety. Operation Take Back America effectively consolidates efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhoods to promote a safer environment for all.