By Patrick Byrne 
San Juan, Puerto Rico – A Dominican national pleaded guilty for his involvement in a tragic human smuggling operation that led to the deaths of multiple migrants. Fermín Montilla, 45, admitted to one count of bringing aliens into the United States at a location other than a designated port of entry, resulting in death.
According to court documents, Montilla participated in a maritime smuggling venture on May 12, 2022, attempting to bring 48 migrants into the United States illegally. His actions directly contributed to the deaths of 11 of those individuals.
Montilla faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. His sentencing is expected to take place later this year, where a federal district court judge will consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors before determining his punishment.
The announcement was made by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, U.S. Attorney W. Stephen Muldrow for the District of Puerto Rico, and Special Agent in Charge Rebecca González-Ramos of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) San Juan.
Ryan Rudd