Feds join 'coyote' crackdown

[Withergyld]

"Federal authorities are expected to soon launch a major assault against violent immigrant-smuggling operations in Phoenix, bringing in special agents to form a task force with state and local police.
<snip>
Smuggling operations have escalated dramatically in the Valley over the past five years, along with violence caused by robbers and kidnappers who prey on immigrants in transit.
<snip>
The surge in smuggling-related violence has been attributed to huge increases in the fees coyotes charge, beefed-up border enforcement and Arizona's growing role as a funnel for illegal immigration thanks to crackdowns in California and Texas.

Fifteen years ago, an immigrant could be smuggled from Mexico to a U.S. destination for $200 or less. Today, the price is about $1,500. And without guides, the trip is nearly impossible."

http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/1106shootingfolo.html

I am posting this as a follow up to the article I posted about Crime in Arizona's National Parks.