SAN ANTONIO, TX – A Texas man, Derek Riojas, was arrested Friday, July 25, on federal charges related to his alleged involvement in human smuggling. Riojas is charged with one count of transporting illegal aliens and faces a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison if convicted.

According to court documents, Riojas was pulled over by a U.S. Border Patrol agent on IH-35 near Dilley after being observed driving suspiciously. As his vehicle slowed, the agent saw several individuals in the back of the vehicle, and they allegedly fled into nearby brush. Backup Border Patrol agents apprehended the fleeing subjects and determined they were illegally present in the United States.

Riojas made his initial court appearance and will be sentenced by a federal district court judge, who will consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The U.S. Border Patrol is investigating the case. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas.