LAX worker accused of smuggling immigrants

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 4 (UPI) -- An elevator mechanic at Los Angeles International Airport has been charged with smuggling illegal immigrants into the United States, officials said.

The Los Angeles Times reported Thursday that Roberto Amaya Canchola, 53, is accused of leading illegal immigrants out of an airport terminal before they were inspected by federal authorities.

Canchola, who was arrested at the airport Aug. 23, is believed to have smuggled in at least 15 illegal immigrants, the newspaper reported.

"We don't know at this time how big it is," said Louis Rodi, assistant special agent in charge of immigration and customs investigations at the airport. "We believe he is not the biggest player. ... We are targeting the larger organization."

Canchola, a city employee for 23 years, had been cleared by both the airport and U.S. Customs and Border Protection to access the restricted area, said Nancy Castles, public relations director for Los Angeles World Airports.

Canchola has been working at the airport since 1989, with the exception of a few months earlier this year.