8 U.S.C. 1324 | Smuggling, Transporting, Harboring, or Bringing in Illegal Aliens | San Diego Federal Attorneys

Smuggling, transporting, harboring, or bringing in illegal aliens into the United States is a serious federal offense under 8 U.S.C. § 1324. If you are facing these charges in San Diego federal court, you need an experienced San Diego Criminal Defense Lawyer Anton Vialtsin to protect your rights.

San Diego, located in the Southern District of California, is one of the busiest border jurisdictions in the country. Federal prosecutors here aggressively pursue alien smuggling cases. Penalties can include 10 years, 20 years, life in prison, or even the death penalty, depending on the circumstances.

Understanding 8 U.S.C. § 1324 – Alien Smuggling & Related Crimes

1. Alien Smuggling: Bringing someone into the U.S. outside of a port of entry.
2. Domestic Transportation: Moving undocumented individuals inside the U.S.
3. Harboring: Concealing or shielding undocumented individuals.
4. Encouraging: Inducing someone to come to or remain in the U.S. illegally.
5. Conspiracy: Assisting, aiding, or conspiring in any of the above acts.
6. Bringing Aliens: Attempting to bring individuals across checkpoints without authorization.
7. Employing Aliens: Hiring undocumented workers (10+ within a 12-month period).

Key Case Law on Alien Smuggling & Harboring

• U.S. v. Chavez-Palacios, 30 F.3d 1290 (10th Cir. 1994) – Mere transportation alone is insufficient for conviction.
• U.S. v. Sanchez-Vargas, 878 F.2d 1163 (9th Cir. 1989) – Punishes aiding illegal presence inside the U.S.
• United States v. De La Cruz-Garcia, 842 F.3d 1 (1st Cir. 2016) – Death during smuggling triggers sentencing enhancements.
• U.S. v. Acosta De Evans, 531 F.2d 428 (9th Cir. 1976) – Harboring applies after entry, not just during smuggling.
• U.S. v. Garcia, 883 F.3d 570 (5th Cir. 2018) – Knowledge, financial motive, and intent are key elements.

Why Hire San Diego Criminal Defense Lawyer Anton Vialtsin?

Attorney Anton Vialtsin has handled over 200 federal criminal cases, including alien smuggling, drug importation, passport misuse, and federal fraud charges. Many of these cases carried 10-year mandatory minimums or even the death penalty. His deep knowledge of federal sentencing guidelines and courtroom strategy makes him a strong advocate for those accused of serious crimes.

Whether negotiating with federal prosecutors or presenting a vigorous trial defense, Anton Vialtsin has the experience and results to protect your future.

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