Arizona Agriculture Employee Arrested for Alleged Human Smuggling Scandal
In a stunning development, Joshua Castro, a former produce inspector for the Arizona Department of Agriculture (AZDA), was arrested on April 9, 2025, for allegedly smuggling two Mexican nationals across the U.S. border. The incident, reported by KOLD, has sparked outrage and raised questions about oversight within state agencies under Governor Katie Hobbs’ administration.
Border Patrol agents in Nogales spotted Castro driving a black Chevrolet Impala, speeding away from a known smuggling route. The next day, agents observed the same vehicle with two passengers, later identified as Mexican nationals who paid $7,600 and $12,000, respectively, to be smuggled into the U.S. Castro, shockingly wearing his state-issued uniform despite being off-duty, claimed he didn’t know the men and was merely giving them a ride. Court documents reveal the passengers admitted to crossing illegally and following instructions to find Castro’s vehicle.
Castro, whose annual salary was $44,000, now faces one felony and one misdemeanor federal charge. He was immediately fired by the AZDA, but the incident has fueled criticism of Hobbs’ leadership, with some calling her response—promising “mandatory training”—inadequate. Posts on X reflect public fury, with users decrying the betrayal by a government employee.
The case underscores Arizona’s ongoing border security challenges, with smuggling a persistent issue near Mexico. Castro’s arrest adds to a string of smuggling-related incidents, including recent drug busts and cartel scout apprehensions in the state. As the legal process unfolds, the scandal threatens to derail Hobbs’ nomination for AZDA leadership, leaving the public demanding accountability.
