Eight migrant workers were arrested in Tennessee for allegedly looting properties in a flood zone following Hurricane Helene's devastation.
A group of migrant workers was arrested in Washington County, Tennessee, on Saturday, accused of looting properties in a flood-ravaged area following Hurricane Helene’s devastation. The storm had caused widespread flooding, destroying homes and prompting water rescues.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that eight men were arrested and charged with burglary. Three suspects — Jesus Leodan Garcia-Peneda, 51, Josue Berardo Ortis-Valdez, 30, and Ersy Leonel Ortis-Valdez, 33 — were charged with burglary, while five others — Albin Nahun Vega-Rapalo, 24, David Bairon Rapalo-Rapalo, 37, Kevin Noe Martinez-Lopez, 25, Marvin Hernandez-Martinez, 43, and Dayln Gabriel Guillen Guillen, 37 — faced aggravated burglary charges for breaking into occupied buildings.
The defendants are legally in the U.S. on work visas, according to a sheriff's spokesperson. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) had no immediate information on the case.
The looting incident occurred in one of the county’s designated flood zones, though it remains unclear whether the properties involved were residential homes or businesses. The men are being held on $20,000 bonds and are expected to appear in court.
Tennessee was one of several southeastern states severely impacted by Hurricane Helene, which dumped over 40 trillion gallons of water, causing extensive damage.
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