Texas oil worker Caden Hawkins jailed in one of Mexico’s most violent prisons after mistakenly crossing border

A 23-year-old Texas oil field worker, Caden Hawkins, has been detained in a dangerous Mexican prison for nine months after unintentionally crossing the border in an “honest accident” while trying to return home to Hallsville. His family is desperately pleading for his safe return.

Hawkins found himself locked up on weapons charges at Cereso Estatal No. 3 in Juarez on March 2, after his GPS led him to the US-Mexico border in Columbus, New Mexico. He was unaware of his location until it was too late to turn back, leading to his arrest.

Captured on his phone, Hawkins filmed the tense exchange with authorities before being taken into custody. The charges against him stem from possessing a pistol and ammunition, which he was legally licensed to carry. His mother, April Thomas, insists that it was a genuine mistake and that her son is not a criminal.

His sister, Haley Nicole Hawkins, described his detainment as one of the most challenging experiences for their family. The emotional toll of hearing him distraught on the phone has been overwhelming for them all.

Since his arrest, the family has spent significant amounts of money in an effort to bring him home and is now seeking help from lawmakers. East Texas State Rep. Jay Dean has accused a corrupt federal judge in Juarez of using Hawkins as a “cash asset” and extorting money from the family.

Dean stated that the family is being forced to pay a substantial amount weekly to ensure Hawkins has basic necessities and protection from other inmates. The situation is deemed unacceptable, and efforts are being made to bring Caden home before Christmas.

US Sen. John Cornyn and Rep. Dean are calling for federal intervention and urging the public to reach out to government offices for assistance. Hawkins’ appeal process may take up to two years to review, and he could potentially face a sentence of up to four years.

Cereso Estatal No. 3 is notorious for its dangerous conditions, including violent riots, overcrowding, gang activity, inmate hierarchies, and security breaches. In a recent incident on New Year’s Day 2023, the prison experienced a deadly riot orchestrated by the Los Mexicles gang, resulting in the deaths of 10 guards and the escape of around 30 inmates.

The Hawkins family remains hopeful for Caden’s safe return and is calling for urgent action to bring him back home. Their plea for help has gained traction among lawmakers and the public, as efforts continue to secure his release from the perilous Mexican prison.