Posted on April 5, 2005

Official Admits Letting Illegal Immigrants Into Texas

AP, Apr. 5

McALLEN, Texas—A now-former Customs and Border Protection official admits accepting money to allow illegal immigrants into Texas.

Federal prosecutors in McAllen today announced 41-year-old Fabian Solis pleaded guilty to taking part in an immigrant smuggling conspiracy.

Officials say Solis in 2003 would let illegal immigrants drive through international bridge lanes he supervised.

The scheme operated at the Falcon Heights, Roma and Rio Grande City ports of entry.

An undercover operation led to Solis, who was named in a four-count indictment returned in December.

He was charged with conspiracy, attempting to transport undocumented aliens, acceptance of official bribes and extortion under color of official right.

Sentencing is July first. Solis faces ten years in federal prison and a fine of up to 250-thousand dollars.