FORMER BORDER INSPECTOR PLEADS GUILTY

United States Attorney Stephen J. Murphy announced that Adam Bender, 49, of Eastpointe, a former U.S. Border Inspector, entered a plea of guilty today to two charges of alien smuggling, and conspiracy to commit that offense. Bender's guilty plea followed guilty pleas previously entered by Hassan Saad, 35, of Detroit, and Hani Bazzi of Windsor, who were charged in the same indictment. Each of the offenses carries a maximum penalty of up to five years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $250,000.

US Attorney Murphy was joined in the announcement by Andrew Arena, Detroit FBI Special Agent in Charge, and Thomas M. Frost, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Homeland Security's Office of the Inspector General.

Bender pleaded guilty to using his position at the border to allow entry of illegal aliens into the United States. Saad , an acquaintance of Bender's, would accompany the aliens from Canada into the United States, through Bender's station at the border.

United States Attorney Stephen J. Murphy said, "The protection of our borders is the keystone without which the structure of our homeland security would be unsound. This office will be vigilant in prosecuting any cases in which federal officials cross the line into criminal activity."

Special Agent in Charge Frost said, "This guilty plea sends a clear message that employees of the Department of Homeland Security who decide to engage in criminal activity within the scope of their duties will be aggressively pursued and prosecuted. Violations of the public trust will not be tolerated

Bender entered his guilty plea before United States District Court Judge Robert H. Cleland. Sentencing is scheduled for 10/11/07.

The case was investigated by special agents of the FBI, DHS-OIG and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn McCarthy

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