Judge dismisses riot charges against 200 migrants crossing through El Paso border
- In Reports
- 12:05 PM, May 10, 2024
- Myind Staff
The judge dismissed rioting charges against 211 illegal migrants captured on camera as they attempted to enter the United States through the El Paso border wall. They were seen knocking over guards and breaking through the razor wire. The decision was made on the basis of a technicality.
El Paso County Judge Ruben Morales dismissed the case during a hearing, explaining that his hands were tied due to the state's failure to provide the required transfer order. This document is necessary for moving the matter from district to county court.
In the hearing, Judge Morales stated that he could do nothing about the cases if he lacked jurisdiction, except dismiss them. This decision dealt a significant blow to District Attorney Bill Hicks, who was actively pursuing the cases.
During a press conference, District Attorney Hicks stated, "Our office feels strongly that the procedure was appropriate and proper. We believe Judge Morales’ order is improper, and we intend to appeal."
El Paso County Assistant District Attorney Kyle Lasley argued that Judge Morales' court oversaw misdemeanor cases and therefore had jurisdiction.
Public Defender Kelli Childress stated that the "processes were ignored" during the transfer of the cases, while Morales supported her assertion by stating that his "hands are tied" without the transfer order.
Hicks stated that the migrants, who breached the razor-wire fences and assaulted National Guard troops, will be transferred to federal custody under Customs and Border Protection.
He added that some of the rioters might be eligible to seek asylum in the United States and subsequently be released into the country. “Border Patrol will then process them. So some may qualify for asylum, some may not. Some may be deported, some may not,” Hicks explained.
Image source: NY Post
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