Texas Department of Public Safety

KENEDY COUNTY (News Release) - On Monday, September 16, 2024, a Texas Department of Public Safety - North Texas Region Trooper stopped a Ford F-250 towing a cargo trailer on US Highway 77 in Kenedy County.

During the stop, the driver, Anthony Jhonson of Houston, consented to a search of the trailer. During that search, Troopers discovered a false wall and behind that wall were 16 illegal immigrants crammed inside a small compartment with no air ventilation.

Jhonson was arrested and charged with 16 counts of smuggling of persons with the likelihood of serious bodily injury or death.

All 16 illegal immigrants were referred to Border Patrol.