A man has been arrested by U.S. authorities for his involvement in the deaths of an Indian family of four who froze near the border between Manitoba and the United States two years ago.
This case was one of the most horrific and famous cases.
Harshkumar Ramanlal Patel, also known as Dirty Harry, is accused of transporting an illegal immigrant and conspiracy.
The Patel family, not related to Harshkumar Patel, died from exposure while trying to cross into Minnesota near Emerson in January 2022.
Investigators say Harshkumar Patel, who allegedly ran a gambling establishment in Florida, worked with Steve Shand, another Florida resident awaiting trial for smuggling migrants.
Text messages exchanged between Harshkumar Patel and Steve Shand suggest they organized the smuggling operation, including ensuring the family was prepared for harsh weather.
Harshkumar Patel is also accused of providing GPS coordinates and contacts in Canada for the smuggling operation.
Steve Shand admitted to making several trips to the border to transport Indian nationals, earning around $25,000 working for Harshkumar Patel.
He allegedly received $2,900 upfront and $5,000 after the Patel family incident.
Another person implicated in the smuggling operation is Fenil Patel, facing charges in India for his alleged role in transporting the family.
Harshkumar Patel had attempted to enter the U.S. multiple times but was denied a visa. He was once in Canadian custody and released with the expectation he would cross into the U.S. illegally.
Patel’s lawyer confirmed his arrest, and his next court appearance is scheduled for February 28 in Chicago.
Steve Shand’s trial is set to begin on March 25 in Fergus Falls, Minnesota.
