8 accused in the people smuggling investigation

Eight people have been charged for their alleged involvement in a large-scale human trafficking ring that brought illegal migrants to the United States in the Cornwall area.

RCMP said at a news conference in Cornwall on Thursday that between July 2022 and June 2023, a human trafficking ring allegedly smuggled hundreds of “desperate” migrants through communities along the St. Lawrence across borders in the United States. The migrants were allegedly charged thousands of dollars by the traffickers. Dangerous crossings at night have even cost some migrants their lives.

Charged are: Thesingarasan Rasiah, 51, of Montreal, Joel Portillo, 38, of Montreal, Justin Rourke, 43, of Saint Regis, Shawna Etienne, 47, of Kanesatake, Mary June Benedict, 48 years, Akwesasne, Cheyenne Lewis, 51, Akwesasne, Tionna David, 21, Saint Regis, and Michael McCormick, 47, of Cornwall.

“Many people from all over the world come to North America in desperate search of a better life. Transnational criminal networks exploit this desperation to profit from these men, women and families without concern for their well-being. While working with our partners has been critical in bringing this group to justice, I would also like to remind the public to remain vigilant and notify us immediately if they see suspicious activity at our borders to help authorities put an end to this type of crime. dangerous operation,” said Insp. Etienne Thauvette, officer in charge of the RCMP’s Cornwall detachment.