Val Verde County, Texas – On June 8, 2025, a human smuggling attempt was stopped on US-277 when a Texas DPS Trooper pulled over a white Ford pickup hauling hay bales.

After noticing criminal indicators, the Trooper called for help from a U.S. Border Patrol K-9 unit.

The K-9 alerted officers to a false compartment hidden inside the hay.

Inside, two illegal immigrants were found. One had a prior assault conviction.

The driver, identified as Christopher Ortiz of San Antonio, was arrested.

He now faces charges of smuggling of persons.

The two immigrants, both from Mexico, were handed over to Border Patrol for removal proceedings.

This case highlights the close cooperation between Texas DPS and the U.S. Border Patrol.

Officials say this effort is part of Operation Lone Star, aimed at securing the border and stopping smuggling networks.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download