Mexican man convicted of alien smuggling after 90-mile chase

LAREDO, Texas – A 21-year-old legal permanent resident from Laredo has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to transport undocumented aliens from Guatemala, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Ivan Duran Gachuzo admitted he was transporting illegal aliens to San Antonio for $4,000.

On Jan. 20 at approximately 5:20 p.m., law enforcement attempted to perform a traffic stop on a Chevrolet truck at the Moose Ranch near Freer. Gachuzo was driving. Numerous individuals jumped out of the truck and absconded into the brush. Authorities apprehended three and determined them to be citizens of Guatemala.

Gachuzo then accelerated towards an official vehicle, nearly causing a crash. He  continued to flee from law enforcement for approximately 90 miles through four different counties. He attempted to enter Mexico at the Falcon Port of Entry in Roma where he was ultimately apprehended.  

Gachuzo admitted he swerved toward the agent’s vehicle because he wanted to get away. He was asked if he knew he could have hurt or killed someone. “I was aware that could happen,” Gachuzo replied.  

U.S. District Judge Diana Saldana will impose sentencing at a later date, at which time Gachuzo faces up to 10 years in prison.

He has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.

Border Patrol conducted the investigation with assistance from Customs and Border Protection, Texas Department of Public Safety and the Jim Hogg County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Day is prosecuting the case.