Smuggler Trial in Texas: The Jury is Out!

Using graphic photos of the 19 illegal immigrants who died in a stifling trailer, prosecutors asked jurors Friday to remember what the defendants had done to the victims and find them guilty of human smuggling violations.

“These were people with hopes and dreams whose lives were ended,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Rodriguez said.

Defense attorneys blamed the deaths of the 19 on federal immigration laws, ignorance of others’ actions and vengeful wayward sons and asked jurors to acquit their clients, on trial for their roles in United States’ deadliest human smuggling attempt.

The jury began deliberating Friday afternoon. For the rest of the story, see http://www.cnn.com/2006/LAW/02/03/truck.bodies.ap/index.html

KJ