Cops find 80 suspected immigrants at house

The Arizona Republic

Published: 03.10.2008

Police discovered 80 suspected illegal immigrants in and near an Avondale house Saturday evening after they received a tip about suspicious activity.

According to police, an anonymous caller reported numerous cars coming and going in the neighborhood.

An officer found 13 illegal immigrants inside a minivan leaving the house.

Police said officers soon discovered 67 suspected illegal immigrants inside the house. Some were coming and going; others were hiding in the attic in an attempt to avoid capture, police said.

Police said the immigrants, men and women, all appeared unharmed.

Police described it as one of the largest drop houses found in Avondale.

"It's got to be one of our biggest ones, if not the biggest one," said Sgt. Memo Espinoza, a police spokesman.