A young Texas oil field worker named Caden Hawkins has been detained in Cereso Estatal No. 3, one of Mexico’s most dangerous prisons, for nine months after accidentally crossing the border into Mexico. The incident occurred on March 2, when Hawkins, 23, was trying to return home to Hallsville after a job. His GPS directed him to the US-Mexico border in Columbus, New Mexico, without him realizing it until it was too late to turn back.
Hawkins was detained for carrying a pistol and ammunition, which he was legally licensed to carry in the US. His mother, April Thomas, described it as an “honest accident” and insisted that her son is not a criminal and does not deserve to be locked up. Since his arrest, the family has been trying to bring him back home, spending tens of thousands of dollars in the process.
East Texas State Rep. Jay Dean raised concerns that Hawkins is being used as a “cash asset for a corrupt federal judge in Juarez, Mexico,” and that his family has been extorted for months. The family is reportedly forced to pay over $1000 a week for basic necessities like hot water, toilet paper, and protection from violent inmates. Dean and US Sen. John Cornyn are calling for federal intervention to bring Hawkins back home.
Cereso Estatal No. 3 is known for its dangerous conditions, including violent riots, overcrowding, gang presence, and security failures. In a recent incident on New Year’s Day 2023, a riot led by the Los Mexicles gang resulted in the death of 10 guards and the escape of around 30 inmates.
Hawkins’ family is hoping for a resolution soon, as his appeal may not be reviewed for up to two years, and he could potentially face a four-year sentence. The family is urging lawmakers and the public to support their efforts to bring Caden Hawkins back home safely.
