16 Marines arrested on human smuggling and drug-related allegations

The Los Angeles Times report on an arrest that might surprise some people.

Yesterday, sixteen Marines were arrested at Camp Pendleton for various illegal activities ranging from human smuggling to drug-related offenses. Information gained from previous arrests led to the latest arrests.

On July 3, two Marines were arrested for allegedly transporting unauthorized immigrants as part of a smuggling operation. Eight additional Marines were questioned about other alleged drug offenses unrelated to the arrests.

Names of the Marines arrested yesterday and details of the alleged offenses were not immediately released.

The Marines arrested on July 3 were arrested after Border Patrol agents saw their vehicle pull off Interstate 8 and pick up three unauthorized immigrants. They were arraigned in federal court in San Diego July 8.

KJ