SMITHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — A major investigation into human smuggling and child labor trafficking at a Smithville business led to two arrests.
Authorities revealed four minors were brought illegally into the U.S. by apparent Mexican drug cartel members and forced to work at Chabelita’s Restaurant and Market to pay off their smuggling and housing costs.
Multiple arrests were made on Wednesday, including Joshua Hernandez-Morales and Marcelino Diaz-Decena, who face serious charges.
Hernandez-Morales is charged with trafficking for forced labor or services after a major bust on Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025 into human smuggling and child labor trafficking at Chabelita’s Restaurant and Market in Smithville, Tennessee. (Photo: DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office)
Diaz-Decena is charged with unlawful possession of a weapon after a major bust on Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025 into human smuggling and child labor trafficking at Chabelita’s Restaurant and Market in Smithville, Tennessee. (Photo: DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office)
The investigation began when a young girl escaped and reported the situation to the Smithville Police Department. She was staying with adults on Bright Hill Road, while three boys were found alone at a home on West Broad Street. Police report they are now in custody of the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services.
Authorities executed search warrants at Chabelita’s locations and seized firearms and evidence. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, along with local law enforcement, played a key role in the probe.
Hernandez-Morales is charged with trafficking for forced labor or services and has a $75,000 bond. His court appearance is set for Jan. 8, 2026. Diaz-Decena is charged with unlawful possession of a weapon and has a $25,000 bond. His court date is also set for Jan. 8, 2026.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Federal Department of Homeland Security also arrested two illegal immigrants during the raid.
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More arrests are expected, according to authorities.
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