http://ap.tbo.com/ap/breaking/MGBJ7CBHVFE.html

The Associated Press

Published: Nov 10, 2005

PHOENIX (AP) - Thirteen motel operators in suburban Mesa have been indicted on charges they rented rooms to federal agents posing as immigrant smugglers and coached them on how to conceal their activities, authorities said Thursday.

The defendants allegedly told the agents to register under false names, rent multiple rooms and park their vehicles in inconspicuous places.

All but one of those indicted had been arrested by Thursday, said prosecutors, who also are seeking the forfeiture of five of the six motels allegedly involved.

The indictment charged the 13 with conspiring to harbor illegal immigrants.

Arizona is the busiest illegal entry point along the 2,000-mile U.S.-Mexico border.