Texas Man Jailed for Smuggling Illegal Immigrants in Tractor Trailer Tank

It has been reported by San Antonio KTSA News that a Texas man has been sentenced to six years in federal prison. Oland Maurice McKenzie received his sentence in Del Rio. On June 29, 2023, McKenzie was stopped while driving his 18-wheeler tractor-trailer, which was carrying 18 illegal aliens in a metal "grain hopper" trailer. This information was reported through court documents. McKenzie had failed to use his turn signal when entering a parking lot, a minor infraction that led to the deputy stopping him. Upon further investigation, the deputy discovered that McKenzie did not have a commercial driver's license, which is required to operate a tractor-trailer. U.S. Border Patrol agents also arrived at the scene and had their canines inspect the area, which led to the discovery of the 18 individuals hidden in the truck.

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Texas Man Who Attempted to Smuggle Immigrants in Tank Gets Prison Sentence

Marget  Leachman, the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Texas, stated that this early law enforcement intervention saved lives. She also mentioned that the tractor-trailer was loaded with human cargo and was headed for San Antonio from Eagle Pass. Leachman emphasized that while there were no injuries beyond heat exhaustion, the situation could have been much worse and potentially resulted in fatalities if not for the quick actions of law enforcement.

Texas Man Jailed for Smuggling Aliens in Secret Compartment of Tractor Trailer

McKenzie was charged and arrested under a criminal complaint and was found guilty on May 1, 2024, by a jury verdict.