Rio Rico Man Sentenced to 40 Months in Prison for Transporting Illegal Aliens for Profit

TUCSON, Ariz. – Jesus Moises Ruiz, Jr., 34, of Rio Rico, was sentenced on November 9, 2023, by United States District Judge Scott H. Rash to 40 months in prison. Ruiz pleaded guilty on August 31, 2023, to one count of Transportation of Illegal Aliens for Profit.

On February 20, 2023, United States Border Patrol agents pursued Ruiz while he was traveling on State Route 90, driving a grey Chevrolet pickup truck. Ruiz accelerated to a high rate of speed and eventually merged onto Interstate-10 (I-10). Ruiz exited I-10 and was located by agents with the assistance of air support. After a lengthy pursuit, agents were able to apprehend him.

Five undocumented noncitizens exited Ruiz’s vehicle during the pursuit and were later found by agents.

Customs and Border Protection’s United States Border Patrol Agents-Sonoita Station and Homeland Security Investigations-Nogales conducted the investigation in this case. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Chamblee, United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson.  
 

CASE NUMBER:            CR-23-00385-SHR-1      
RELEASE NUMBER:    2023-186_Ruiz

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