A Dominican national pleaded guilty Friday to his role in a human smuggling venture that resulted in the deaths of multiple migrants, officials stated.
Fermín Montilla, 45, pleaded guilty to one count of bringing aliens to the United States at a place other than a designated port of entry resulting in death.
According to court documents, Montilla was involved in a maritime human smuggling venture that attempted to bring migrants illegally to the United States.
On or about the evening of May 12, 2022, Montilla knowingly brought 48 persons to the United States unlawfully. Montilla’s actions caused the deaths of 11 of those people.
The defendant is expected to be sentenced later this year. He faces up to life in prison.
Homeland Security Investigations in San Juan investigated this case.
Trial Attorney Angela Buckner of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and U.S. Coast Guard Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Helena Daniel for the District of Puerto Rico are prosecuting the case.