Illegal entry suspects get probation

Federal district court judge Alex Munson sentenced two foreign nationals yesterday to one-year probation each following their earlier guilty plea to attempted illegal entry to the U.S.

In yesterday’s sentencing, Munson ordered the one-year supervisory release of Wang Fei Zan and one year probation for Zhuang Xiu Ying.

The two reportedly attempted to illegally enter the U.S. last December. But since they pled guilty to the charges in February this year, they were able to negotiate for a lighter penalty with the prosecution, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, represented yesterday by Jamie Bowers.

In his recommendation, Bowers called for a one-year probation and a reasonable assessment of fine against the defendants on the condition that they cooperate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

“The condition is to provide truthful testimony because she [Wang] has not really cooperated [with the USAO],” he said.

Wang’s counsel, Joseph Arriola, made no objection except for an initial misunderstanding about the one-year probation and one-year supervisory release.

After clarifying with the prosecution and the probation’s office, Arriola agreed to the supervisory release.

Meantime, Munson granted the defendant’s appeal for the immediate release of her passport and other travel materials. He also ordered that Wang’s $10,000 bail bond be returned to her.

During the one-year supervisory release, the defendant is required to comply with all the federal court’s instruction, including the completion of a 200-hour community service and payment of a $10 assessment fee.

She was not assessed a fine for lack of finances.

Wang was earlier indicted for conspiracy to make false statement and attempted improper entry of an alien last December.

As for Zhuang, the judge granted her a one-year probation, which carries a number of conditions, including the payment of $10 assessment fee, a $25 fine, and 200 hours community service.

Zhuang was represented yesterday by lawyer Daniel Aguilar.

Munson noted that the two could no longer appeal the decision as they agreed to it in their plea agreement. However, the judge said that, in case they decide to appeal it, they must do it within 10 days.

They could seek the court’s assistance for a legal counsel if they cannot afford their own for any appeal within the 10-day period.