Yonel V. Hernández, a Cuban national, was apprehended by Eagle Pass, Texas police on suspicions of human smuggling. His arrest occurred after he was identified in February 2024, when he abandoned a white Honda Pilot during a chase in the Las Brisas area, as reported by the Mexican outlet Zócalo.
Last Friday afternoon, officers recognized Hernández as he entered a local hotel. Upon obtaining an arrest warrant from Justice of the Peace Mingo Rodríguez, they proceeded with his capture. Hernández attempted to flee through the hotel's back door but was apprehended after a short pursuit, during which he resisted arrest.
During the operation, three undocumented migrants were discovered in Hernández's hotel room. They were subsequently taken into custody by the Border Patrol.
This arrest highlights the collaboration between local police and federal agents, who are investigating Hernández's potential ties to human smuggling networks in the region, according to the press report.
In recent years, numerous Cuban nationals have been detained for human smuggling. For instance, in January 2025, three Cuban individuals were arrested in Miami for their involvement in a human trafficking operation. The offenders were caught transporting over 20 undocumented migrants, primarily of Chinese origin, who had arrived by boat to Florida's shores and were found in Coral Gables.
Understanding Human Smuggling Arrests in Texas
What led to Yonel V. Hernández's arrest in Texas?
Hernández was arrested after being identified as the driver who abandoned a vehicle during a police chase, and officers later recognized him at a local hotel.
How did the authorities capture Hernández?
Authorities captured Hernández after he attempted to escape through the back of a hotel, leading to a brief chase where he resisted arrest.
What was discovered in Hernández's hotel room?
Three undocumented migrants were found in his hotel room and were taken into custody by the Border Patrol.