A federal judge has rejected requests for new trials for two men convicted in a tragic 2022 human smuggling case that led to the deaths of four members of an Indian family trying to cross into the U.S. from Canada during a blizzard.
U.S. District Judge John Tunheim ruled on Tuesday that there was ample evidence for the jury to convict Harshkumar Ramanlal Patel and Steve Anthony Shand on all four counts related to the case. The judge’s decision means both men can now take their appeals to a higher court after sentencing, which is scheduled for May 7.
A Tragic Crossing
The case stems from a deadly incident on January 19, 2022, when Jagdish Patel (39), his wife Vaishaliben (mid-30s), and their two children, Vihangi (11) and Dharmik (3), froze to death in rural Manitoba, just north of the Minnesota border. The family, originally from the village of Dingucha in Gujarat, India, were attempting to enter the U.S. on foot in extreme cold as part of a smuggling operation.
Seven others in their group survived.
“Dirty Harry” and a Smuggling Network
Prosecutors described the operation as a sophisticated and growing human smuggling ring, with Patel — an Indian national who allegedly used the alias “Dirty Harry” — coordinating the illegal crossings, and Shand — a Florida man — acting as a key player in physically transporting migrants.
Defense attorneys argued the evidence was insufficient and pointed to a late disclosure of disciplinary action against a testifying Border Patrol agent. Judge Tunheim called the disclosure “troubling” but said it had minimal impact on the outcome and upheld his decision to try both men together.
What’s Next
The most serious charges carry maximum penalties of up to 20 years in prison. Sentencing will follow federal guidelines, which weigh multiple factors, including the defendants’ roles and the impact of the crime. Prosecutors have not yet announced their sentencing recommendations.
The case has drawn international attention, particularly in India, where the victims’ story highlighted the growing risks faced by migrants pursuing the so-called “snowshoe route” from Canada to the U.S. through treacherous terrain.
