4 Mexican men rescued from Phoenix drop house

4 Mexican men rescued from Phoenix drop house

Updated: Thursday, 03 May 2012, 7:36 PM MST
Published : Thursday, 03 May 2012, 7:36 PM MST

PHOENIX (AP) — Authorities say they've rescued four Mexican men from a Phoenix drop house and arrested five suspected human smugglers.

Three of the hostages told federal immigration investigators that they were beaten and sexually assaulted by their captors, who also used a stun gun on them.

Authorities say when they entered a bedroom of the home Wednesday, two of the men were bound with rope around their ankles and a third man had been stabbed recently on his upper back.

They say all three had other visible injuries consistent with being physically abused. The fourth man appeared physically unharmed.

The five suspected smugglers were arrested by Phoenix police and booked Thursday into the Maricopa County Jail on suspicion of kidnapping, aggravated assault, sexual assault and extortion.

They may also face federal charges.

4 Mexican men rescued from Phoenix drop house