Human Smuggling Charges

Arrested for Human Smuggling in Arizona? Elias Damianakos Is the Defense Attorney You Want on Your Side

Arizona is a major focus of federal enforcement efforts related to alien smuggling, harboring, and transporting undocumented immigrants—and Tucson is one of the most heavily patrolled regions in the country. If you’ve been arrested or charged under 8 U.S.C. § 1324, you’re likely being investigated by federal agencies such as Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), or Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

These cases move quickly, and the penalties are steep. You need a skilled, aggressive defense attorney with real courtroom experience—and insight into how the prosecution works. Elias Damianakos, a former Arizona prosecutor, provides exactly that.

What Constitutes Human Smuggling Under Federal Law?

You don’t have to be part of a criminal organization to be charged with human smuggling. The law is broad and can apply to a wide range of conduct, including:

• Transporting undocumented immigrants by car, bus, or other means
• Providing shelter or a “stash house”
• Arranging travel or guiding individuals through desert areas
• Helping someone cross a checkpoint or avoid detection
• Accepting payment or favors in exchange for assistance

Even acts that seem minor or were done out of compassion can result in federal criminal charges, especially if the government believes you acted “knowingly” or with “reckless disregard” of someone’s immigration status.

What Are the Possible Penalties For Human Smuggling?

Penalties vary depending on the circumstances of the case, but many smuggling-related offenses carry:

• Mandatory minimum prison sentences (especially in cases involving injury, death, or profit)
• Up to 10 years or more in federal prison
• Asset forfeiture (vehicles, homes, cash)
• Federal felony record, which can never be sealed or expunged

The government may also pursue conspiracy charges, which can significantly increase the complexity and severity of the case.

How Elias Damianakos Can Help

As a former prosecutor, Elias Damianakos understands how law enforcement agencies build these cases and where their mistakes often lie. His approach is strategic and aggressive—challenging the evidence at every step and exposing weaknesses in the government’s case.

Common defense strategies may include:

• Lack of knowledge – proving you didn’t know the person was undocumented
• No criminal intent – showing your actions were not done for profit or illegal purpose
• Illegal search or seizure – contesting traffic stops, GPS tracking, or warrantless surveillance
• Unreliable witnesses or informants – questioning the credibility of co-defendants or cooperating witnesses

Each case is different, but Elias takes the time to understand every detail, investigate thoroughly, and tailor a defense that works for you. His courtroom presence, negotiation skill, and deep legal insight have helped hundreds of clients protect their rights and their future.

Don’t Wait to Get the Help You Need

Human smuggling charges can derail your life—but early intervention from the right defense attorney can make all the difference. Elias Damianakos offers free consultations, accepts collect calls from jail, and is available 24/7 for urgent cases.

If you’ve been arrested or believe you’re under investigation, don’t speak to investigators until you speak with Elias. Your rights, freedom, and reputation are on the line—put your defense in the hands of someone who knows how to win.