ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Federal prosecutors say a Texas man is facing up to life in prison after pleading guilty to conspiring to transport immigrants, resulting in a fatal crash in New Mexico.
They say 27-year-old Robert Acevedo of El Paso entered his plea Monday.
He remains in custody awaiting sentencing.
According to court records, Acevedo picked up a group of migrants on April 6 in Dona Ana County.
Border Patrol agents tried to stop Acevedo’s minivan using emergency lights and sirens, but he kept driving.
Agents then used a controlled tire deflation device in an attempt to stop Acevedo.
Authorities say Acevedo swerved to avoid the device and lost control of the minivan, causing it to roll over.
They say two passengers died in the crash and at least five others were injured.
