3 suspected smugglers, 14 immigrants found (Arizona Republic)

3 suspected smugglers, 14 immigrants found

by Maxine Park - Apr. 24, 2008 05:43 PM
The Arizona Republic

Three suspected human smugglers and 14 suspected illegal immigrants were taken into custody early Wednesday morning after a raid on a West Phoenix house.

The Arizona Department of Public Safety along with Phoenix police said they received a call at about 8:30 a.m. Wednesday regarding suspicious activity at the home near 83rd Avenue and Indian School Road.

Officers arrived on the scene and found what they believe were three "coyotes" along with the 14 immigrants inside. Officials said the 14 people were being beaten and held against their will. Several of them had been there for as long as two weeks.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents took the 14 immigrants, including one juvenile, into custody.

Officials said the three coyotes would be charged in connection with conspiracy to commit human smuggling.