Border-Related Crimes

El Paso Border-Related Crime Lawyers

Trusted Criminal Defense Representation in Texas & New Mexico

Border-related crime has surged as a critical issue in Texas and New Mexico, profoundly affecting both local communities and the nation at large. These crimes, ranging from human trafficking to drug smuggling, pose significant risks to the safety and integrity of residents and all U.S. citizens. This makes them a priority for law enforcement and legal prosecution.

If you or someone you know has been arrested or charged with a border-related offense, you will need skilled and experienced legal representation. At Benjamin Law Firm, our founding attorney is a former prosecutor who has achieved the highest professional status in Texas as a Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist.

Attorney Benjamin is highly proficient in Texas, New Mexico, and federal criminal defense. Because these charges primarily involve federal law enforcement agencies, his experience in federal court could be crucial to your case.

We represent both U.S. citizens and foreign nationals in cross-border accusations. If you are a foreign national, you could lose your visa and be deported. U.S. citizens face potential incarceration, fines, and more.

Get advice about your case from an El Paso border-related crime attorney at Benjamin Law Firm. Call (915) 301-9028 or email us online to get started. Hablamos español.

Border-Related Crimes in El Paso & the States of Texas & New Mexico

Crimes related to the border can include:

Human Trafficking

Human trafficking involves the illegal transportation and exploitation of individuals for purposes such as forced labor or sexual exploitation. This crime is prosecuted by federal authorities, including the Department of Justice, the FBI, and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

For example, the FBI investigates and prosecutes sex trafficking, labor trafficking, and domestic servitude. They collaborate with other federal, state, local, and tribal agencies to prosecute offenders. The FBI employs several trafficking task forces created to combat all types of trafficking into the U.S.

Penalties for human trafficking are severe, with offenders facing lengthy prison sentences and hefty fines. Convictions can lead to life imprisonment, especially in cases involving minors or where evidence exists of abuse or coercion.

Drug Trafficking

Drug trafficking is the illegal trade of controlled substances across borders, contributing to widespread drug abuse and organized crime. The most commonly trafficked drugs include marijuana, fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine.

Federal agencies, such as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), take the lead in prosecuting these cases. The CBP provides annual statistics on the amounts of drugs confiscated.

Penalties for drug trafficking vary based on the type and quantity of drugs involved but often include significant prison terms and financial penalties. Mandatory minimum sentences are frequently applied to deter this federal crime.

Gun Smuggling

Gun smuggling involves the illegal import or export of firearms, which adds to violence and crime both domestically and internationally. This crime is typically prosecuted under federal law, with agencies like the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) spearheading investigations.

Penalties for gun smuggling can include extensive imprisonment and fines, particularly if the firearms are linked to violent crimes or were intended for use by criminal organizations.

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Here's What Sets Benjamin Law Firm Apart

Strong Legal Relationships

Our connections with colleages in the field, law enforcement, and prosecutors enhance our ability to advocate for you.
Board-Certified Attorney

Founding attorney Brock Benjamin is one of only six certified criminal law attorneys in El Paso County.
Client-Centered Approach

We prioritize your needs, keeping you informed and treating you with dignity throughout the entire legal process.
Aggressive Defense Strategy

We conduct thorough investigations and leverage our nearly 100 jury trials to create effective strategies tailored to your case.

Other Cross-Border Crimes

Other cross-border crimes for which you can be charged include:

Money laundering: This involves concealing the origins of illegally obtained money, often by transferring it across borders. Federal authorities tackle money laundering with strict penalties, including substantial fines and prison terms.
Alien smuggling: As previously discussed, this crime involves the illegal transportation of individuals across borders, prosecuted primarily at the federal level, with severe consequences for those convicted.

While most border crimes fall under federal law, many of these crimes are investigated by state agencies. For example, Texas has state laws against human smuggling; its Human Trafficking and Transnational Organized Crime Division was created in 2016 to enforce its laws.

Furthermore, Operation Lone Star, established by Texas Governor Abbott, works to prevent, detect, and interdict transnational criminal activity.

Crimes such as theft, burglary, and vandalism may be prosecuted at the state level, mainly if they occur in border regions and involve cross-border elements. Violent crimes committed in border areas, including assault or robbery, may also fall under state jurisdiction in some cases.

These crimes are typically prosecuted by local district attorneys or state prosecutors within Texas. The Texas Department of Public Safety and local law enforcement agencies often collaborate with federal authorities to address these issues, especially when they intersect with federal crimes.

Factors That Impact Cross-Border Crime Charges

The penalties for border crimes in Texas and New Mexico can be influenced by several factors, including:

Type of crime: Different crimes, such as drug trafficking, human smuggling, or gun running, carry varying levels of severity and corresponding penalties.
Quantity and scale: The amount of illegal substances or the number of individuals involved can significantly impact the severity of the charges and penalties.
Criminal history: Your prior criminal record can influence sentencing, with repeat offenders often facing harsher penalties.
Use of weapons or violence: Crimes involving firearms or violence typically result in more severe penalties.
Role in the crime: The level of involvement, such as being a leader or organizer versus a minor participant, can affect sentencing.
State vs. federal jurisdiction: Whether the crime is prosecuted at the state or federal level can impact the penalties, as federal charges often carry more severe consequences.
Cooperation with authorities: Aiding law enforcement, such as with information or testimony, can sometimes lead to reduced sentences.
Impact on victims: Crimes that result in significant harm or danger to victims may lead to increased penalties.

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When the stakes are this high, you want a team with a track record of wins. Check out some of our recent case results and see the difference an experienced team of advocates can make.

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How Benjamin Law Firm Can Help

Facing charges for border-related crimes demands skilled legal representation. A knowledgeable defense lawyer such as Mr. Benjamin knows how to navigate the intricacies of federal law, protect your rights, and develop a strategic defense. Our El Paso law firm can provide state and federal legal assistance, handling your case with vigorous advocacy and proven skill.

Call (915) 301-9028 or submit our online contact form to discuss your case with an El Paso cross-border crime attorney today.

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Our Office

1013 E. San Antonio Ave.
El Paso, TX 79901
Map & Directions

Call Today: 915-301-9028

Locations

1013 E. San Antonio Ave.
El Paso, TX 79901
Map & Directions