PLATTSBURGH, NEW YORK – Brian Lazore, age 45, of Hogansburg, New York, pled guilty today to conspiracy to commit alien smuggling and three counts of alien smuggling.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Acting Chief Patrol Agent Keith Hoops, United States Border Patrol, Swanton Sector.
Lazore admitted to smuggling six citizens of India from Cornwall, Ontario, into the United States using the St. Lawrence and St. Regis Rivers. During the smuggling event on April 28, 2022, Lazore’s boat sank in the St. Regis River, and Lazore and the Indian citizens were ultimately picked up by the St. Regis Mohawk Rescue Vessel. Lazore admitted to smuggling the aliens for his own financial gain.
Lazore faces a minimum of 5 years and up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of post-imprisonment supervised release of up to 3 years when he is sentenced on January 5, 2023 by United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes.
A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
This case was investigated by the United States Border Patrol and Homeland Security Investigations. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Stitt.