BCSO discovers 5 victims of human smuggling in southside residence
Bexar County deputies were dispatched to the 400 block of W Pyron Avenue, situated between South Flores and Pleasanton Road, at approximately 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday morning. The call for assistance came after deputies conducted a routine traffic stop and stumbled upon a significant discovery: a kilogram of cocaine concealed inside the vehicle. However, this incident took an unexpected turn when deputies obtained a search warrant for the suspect’s residence, which ultimately led to the discovery of five victims of human smuggling. The victims, hailing from Mexico, consisted of four men and one woman, spanning across different age groups from their 20s to their 40s.
Startlingly, these migrants revealed to the deputies that they had arrived at the house on the previous night, having paid several thousand dollars to their smugglers for transportation and accommodation. The Bexar County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) expressed uncertainty regarding the duration that this particular home had served as a “stash house” for migrants. Echoing this sentiment, Johnny Garcia, a representative of BCSO, commented on the state of the residence, highlighting its neglected appearance: “The bottom portion of the residence it doesn’t look like a maintained home. Upstairs (is) completely emptied just like we would see in a stash house, leading me to believe that this potentially was.”
Providing insight into the issue, Ari Jimenez, a former Homeland Security Investigations agent, revealed that stash houses, such as the one discovered, can be found scattered throughout the city. Jimenez emphasized, “It’s not easy to find them. We have found in San Antonio proper, stash houses near schools, near places of worship, near churches, so it takes investigations.” This revelation reinforces the need for extensive investigative efforts to combat human trafficking in the area.
The local community was surprised and unsettled by the revelation of a possible stash house in their typically tranquil neighborhood. Michael Perez, a resident living nearby, shared his astonishment, remarking, “I’m speechless because I would never think anything would happen in this quiet, little neighborhood.” Fortunately, law enforcement apprehended an individual believed to be associated with the trafficking operation, signaling a successful intervention. Expressing pride in the outcome, Garcia stated, “They turned what could’ve just easily been a drug bust here, we are rescuing five smuggling victims, so it’s a big win for us.”
While this event continues to unfold, further information and details surrounding the incident remain forthcoming. As updates become available, they will be promptly disseminated. In the meantime, KENS 5, a trusted and esteemed news source serving the San Antonio community since its establishment in 1950, remains dedicated to delivering accurate and comprehensive reporting. Over the years, KENS 5 has continuously evolved and pioneered new approaches to local news, consistently adapting to meet the needs of its viewers. Recognized for its excellence and innovation within the industry, the KENS 5 News team remains committed to delivering stories that resonate with the local community.
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In conclusion, as the investigation surrounding the discovered stash house and human smuggling operations progresses, the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office continues its tireless efforts to combat human trafficking within the region. The detection of this operation, resulting in the rescue of five victims, serves as a significant triumph for law enforcement. The community, though shocked, can take solace in the swift action taken to ensure the safety and protection of those involved.
