The U.S. Justice Department has indicted 14 individuals linked to a major alien smuggling network, following a grand jury decision in Las Cruces, New Mexico.

Eight others were arrested for allegedly helping transport and hide undocumented migrants across the southern border.

The indictment describes a sophisticated operation that used stash houses and evasive driving to avoid law enforcement. Tragically, one migrant died from heat exposure. The network reportedly smuggled hundreds, including unaccompanied minors, from Mexico into the U.S.

Federal agencies, including DHS and ICE, worked closely in the investigation. Prosecutors stress that the conspiracy endangered lives and violated national security.

If convicted, defendants face up to 10 years in prison, with possible asset forfeitures. Officials say dismantling such networks is essential to protecting U.S. borders, ensuring migrant safety, and disrupting the financial base of transnational criminal enterprises.