Noem Seeks Death Penalty for Smugglers After Boat Capsizes, Three Migrants Dead

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has called for federal prosecutors to seek the death penalty against two Mexican nationals charged with human smuggling after a boat capsized off the coast of California, resulting in at least three migrant deaths and several others missing. The incident involved a panga-style boat carrying 16 people, including 14 adults and two minors, which overturned near San Diego; three of the deceased were identified as Indian nationals, including a 14-year-old boy whose 10-year-old sister remains missing. Noem emphasized that under both the Immigration and Nationality Act and the Federal Death Penalty Act, smuggling acts resulting in death are eligible for capital punishment. Federal authorities have charged five individuals in connection with the operation, with two of the alleged smugglers facing charges that could result in the death penalty or life in prison. Additional suspects have been charged with transporting illegal aliens and could face significant prison time and fines. The tragedy underscores the deadly risks of maritime human smuggling and has prompted renewed calls for strict legal consequences for smugglers.