Two U.S. border inspectors, Farlis Almonte and Ricardo Rodriguez, have been charged for allegedly accepting bribes to let people enter the U.S. without proper documentation. Investigators discovered communications with human traffickers and unusual cash deposits in their accounts. Surveillance footage showed them allowing numerous undocumented individuals to pass through checkpoints, collecting thousands in bribes. As the case unfolds, the officers maintain their presumption of innocence, with Rodriguez's attorney calling the situation still in its early stages. Almonte may face additional charges related to cash found during his custody.
The investigation on Almonte and Rodriguez started after three migrant smugglers who were arrested last year told federal investigators they had been working with U.S. border inspectors.
Prosecutors said the officers waved dozens of vehicles carrying people without documents, receiving thousands for each vehicle they let through.
Surveillance video showed at least one instance in which a vehicle with a driver and a passenger stopped at a checkpoint but only the driver was documented as having entered the country.
Rodriguez's attorney stated that the case was still in its "infant stages" and emphasized Rodriguez's presumption of innocence.
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