Man arrested for running migrant stash house in Phoenix

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 10 Oct, 04:19 · Archive

Federal authorities arrested a Mexican man accused of running a locked migrant stash house in Phoenix where 11 other people were found living illegally in the US.

Federal authorities arrested Hector Ambrosio Ruiz, 30, of Mexico, after Homeland Security agents served a search warrant at a Phoenix home suspected of being a stash house for migrants. Ruiz was found hiding in a closet with 11 other migrants, all of whom were in the country illegally. Authorities said Ruiz was the only occupant wearing shoes, and found several other pairs in the backyard and kitchen.

Prosecutors alleged the property had inhumane conditions. The exterior doors had been fitted with double-cylinder deadbolt locks requiring a key to open from both inside and outside, preventing residents from leaving. The 11 migrants slept in one room while Ruiz occupied his own bedroom. The living room and kitchen contained no furniture. Investigators also found 12 cellphones in a box in the garage.

Four of the migrants were arrested and charged with illegal reentry. They had previously been removed from the country. If convicted, Ruiz faces up to five years in prison, a fine of $250,000 and three years of probation.

How it is being reported

• Man from Mexico arrested after allegedly running stash house for migrants in PhoenixFederal authorities found Hector Ruiz hiding in a closet with 11 other migrants, prosecutors said. All 12 were found to be in the country illegally.KOLD · 10 Oct, 02:04
• Man from Mexico arrested after allegedly running stash house for migrants in PhoenixFederal authorities found Hector Ruiz hiding in a closet with 11 other migrants, prosecutors said. All 12 were found to be in the country illegally.Azfamily · 10 Oct, 02:04

In this story: Hector Ambrosio Ruiz · Phoenix · Mexico · Homeland Security · U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Arizona

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