El Paso, Texas – Four individuals are facing federal charges in a shocking child-smuggling operation, allegedly involving sedated minors and fraudulent documents presented at border crossings. Authorities say the scheme moved children from Juárez, Mexico, into the United States under false pretenses.
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What Happened
According to court documents, the accused include Susan Guadian and Daniel Guadian, both Mexican citizens; their daughter Dianne Guadian, an American citizen; and Manuel Valenzuela, a legal U.S. resident of El Paso. They are charged in the Western District of Texas with conspiracy to transport aliens and bringing aliens into the U.S. for financial gain.
The alleged crimes occurred between May 1, 2024, and October 18, 2024. During the operation, minors aged 5 to 13 were reportedly given marijuana-infused gummy candies to keep them sedated during nighttime border crossings. At least one child was hospitalized after consuming the drugs.
How the Smuggling Operation Worked
Investigators report that the suspects posed as parents and provided fraudulent documents at U.S. border checkpoints. Text messages seized by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) revealed details of the trafficking network, including the children’s ages and instructions for maintaining “compliance” during transport.
HSI Special Agent in Charge Jason Stevens explained:
“These children are nothing more than currency for criminals. They were transported at night to avoid detection, relying on sedation to keep them quiet and compliant.”
Victims and Families
Officials said many parents trusted the smugglers, believing relatives in the U.S. could safely care for their children. Such arrangements, authorities warn, leave children vulnerable to exploitation, forced labor, and unsafe conditions.
Public and Political Context
The case comes amid ongoing national debate over immigration policies and unaccounted minors. Earlier this month, reports highlighted thousands of minors disappearing from federal custody, prompting renewed calls for reforms to track and protect vulnerable children under U.S. immigration programs.
What Happens Next
U.S. authorities are working to extradite the Mexican citizens to face charges in Texas. Investigations continue, with authorities reviewing communications, financial records, and potential additional victims.
Stevens urged families to use legal channels to bring children into the U.S., warning:
“Criminal smuggling networks put children at extreme risk. Our priority is to stop them before they reach the border.”
Conclusion
The El Paso child-smuggling case highlights the dangers posed by criminal networks exploiting minors and the importance of legal immigration pathways. As federal authorities pursue justice, the case underscores the urgent need for protective measures to prevent children from being trafficked and endangered.