PHOENIX, Ariz. – Janine Torres-Centeno, a Colombian national, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of Conspiracy to Encourage and Induce an Alien to Unlawfully Enter the United States and Bringing an Illegal Alien to the United States for Profit, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona. The indictment was filed on November 6, 2024.
Details of the Smuggling Operation
Federal authorities allege that Torres-Centeno began coordinating the smuggling of Colombian nationals in 2022. According to the indictment, U.S. Border Patrol Sector Intelligence and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) launched an investigation after arresting numerous Colombian nationals who identified Torres-Centeno as their smuggling coordinator.
The indictment outlines how Torres-Centeno allegedly facilitated the smuggling process:
- Recruitment: The individuals reportedly contacted Torres-Centeno after hearing of her success in coordinating illegal entries.
- Travel to Mexico: She instructed the Colombian nationals to travel to Sonoyta, Sonora, Mexico.
- Payment: The accused charged fees ranging from $1,200 to $2,000 per person for arranging their illegal entry.
- Transportation and Housing: Once in Sonoyta, Torres-Centeno is accused of organizing transportation to stash houses, where the individuals stayed before crossing the U.S.-Mexico border illegally.
Potential Penalties
- Conspiracy to Encourage and Induce an Alien to Unlawfully Enter the United States: Carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
- Bringing an Illegal Alien to the United States for Profit: Includes a mandatory minimum prison sentence of three years and a fine of up to $250,000.
Legal Presumption
An indictment is a formal method of charging an individual with criminal activity and does not imply guilt. Torres-Centeno is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Investigation and Prosecution
The investigation was conducted by:
- U.S. Border Patrol Alien Smuggling Unit – Tucson Sector
- Homeland Security Investigations – Casa Grande
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stuart Zander and Matthew Doyle of the District of Arizona, Phoenix.
Ongoing Efforts
Federal authorities remain committed to combating human smuggling networks that exploit individuals and violate U.S. immigration laws. This case underscores the importance of cross-agency collaboration in addressing border-related crimes.
