Smithville, Tennessee – A months-long investigation by local, state, and federal authorities has uncovered a disturbing human smuggling and child labor trafficking operation in DeKalb County, leading to multiple arrests and the rescue of four minor children.
Officials say the children were smuggled into the United States by individuals connected to a Mexican drug cartel and later forced to work at a restaurant and market in Smithville to repay smuggling and housing debts.
How the Investigation Began
According to DeKalb County Sheriff Patrick Ray and Smithville Police Chief Mark Collins, the case came to light after one of the children ran away from the business and sought help from Smithville Police.
The child reportedly told officers she had been illegally smuggled into the country and forced to work as part of a human trafficking and child labor operation. Her report prompted an immediate joint investigation involving the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Department (DCSD) and Smithville Police Department (SPD).
Smuggling Route and Living Conditions
Investigators determined that all four children were brought across the southern U.S. border by a “coyote,” a term commonly used to describe human smugglers.
Authorities say the children were first transported to Arizona, then moved to DeKalb County, Tennessee, where they were put to work at Chabelita’s Restaurant and Market.
Law enforcement uncovered troubling living conditions during the investigation:
- One child, a girl, reported staying at a residence on Bright Hill Road with adults
- Three boys were found living alone at a home on West Broad Street, without adult supervision
After officers confirmed the boys were living unsupervised, they were taken into protective custody and later released to the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services (DCS).
Forced Labor Allegations
Sheriff Ray and Chief Collins stated that the children were forced to work at the restaurant and market to repay:
- The cost of being smuggled into the U.S.
- Their housing expenses in Tennessee
In a joint statement, the officials said:
“The coyotes and the human traffic smugglers are believed to be a part of the Mexican Drug Cartel. All four minor children were forced to work to pay for their housing costs and the debt of being smuggled across the border.”
Search Warrants and Evidence Seized
Following the initial report, investigators executed search warrants at:
- Chabelita’s Restaurant and Market on East Broad Street
- A residence on Bright Hill Road
During the searches, officers reportedly seized multiple firearms and other evidence connected to the investigation.
Authorities also conducted surveillance, which confirmed the children’s living arrangements and strengthened the case for human trafficking and forced labor.
Arrests and Charges Filed
On Wednesday, December 17, a coordinated operation involving:
- Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI)
- U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
- Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
- Local law enforcement agencies
led to the arrest of several individuals connected to the case.
The TBI obtained arrest warrants for the following suspects:
- Joshua Hernandez-Morales, 18
- Charged with Trafficking for Forced Labor or Services
- Bond: $75,000
- Court date: January 8
- Marcelino Diaz-Decena, 52
- Charged with Unlawful Possession of a Weapon
- Bond: $25,000
- Court date: January 8
Officials say the investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges or arrests are possible.
Broader Concerns About Child Trafficking
Law enforcement leaders emphasized that cases involving child labor trafficking often go unnoticed, especially when victims are isolated, undocumented, or fearful of authorities.
This case highlights how smuggling networks exploit vulnerable children, forcing them into labor to pay off debts under coercive conditions.
Authorities are urging community members to report suspicious situations involving child labor, overcrowded housing, or individuals appearing to live without adult supervision.
What Happens Next
All four children are now under the care of Tennessee Department of Children’s Services, where officials will work to ensure their safety and determine long-term support options.
Investigators continue to review evidence seized during the searches and are coordinating with federal agencies to determine whether the smuggling network extends beyond Tennessee.
As the case moves through the court system, officials say protecting the children remains the top priority.
If you have information related to human trafficking or suspect similar activity in your community, law enforcement encourages you to contact local authorities. Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below.
