Former Scottsdale School Employee Accused of Smuggling 4 People into US

Victor Michael Bobbett allegedly admitted to transporting undocumented individuals for $12,000 payment

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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A former employee of the Scottsdale Unified School District, Victor Michael Bobbett, has been arrested and accused of trying to smuggle four people into the United States. Bobbett allegedly admitted to authorities that he was going to transport the individuals illegally in exchange for $12,000 after being recruited through social media.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of human smuggling across the U.S. border and the involvement of individuals from various backgrounds, including those with prior employment in public institutions like school districts. It raises concerns about the recruitment tactics used by smuggling organizations and the potential risks to public safety.

The details

According to court documents, Border Patrol agents spotted Bobbett's SUV in an area commonly used by smuggling operations near Sells, Arizona. After being pulled over by the Tohono O'odham Police Department, Bobbett allegedly admitted to agents that he was there to transport four people illegally into the U.S. Agents found water bottles and blankets in Bobbett's trunk, which they said were signs of a smuggling operation. Bobbett reportedly told agents he had been recruited through social media and was promised $12,000 to transport the individuals from a pickup location near San Miguel, Arizona to Phoenix.

  • On January 28, 2026, Bobbett was pulled over and arrested by the Tohono O'odham Police Department.
  • Bobbett had started working for the Scottsdale Unified School District on February 20, 2018.

The players

Victor Michael Bobbett

A former employee of the Scottsdale Unified School District who was arrested and accused of trying to smuggle four people into the United States.

Scottsdale Unified School District

The school district that employed Bobbett prior to his arrest.

Tohono O'odham Police Department

The law enforcement agency that pulled over and arrested Bobbett.

U.S. Border Patrol

The federal law enforcement agency that assisted in the investigation and arrest of Bobbett.

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What they’re saying

“The district is aware of the arrest of an employee on allegations involving the transportation of undocumented individuals for profit. We are fully cooperating with law enforcement. The employee was immediately placed on administrative leave and has subsequently resigned.”

— Scottsdale Unified School District (azfamily.com)

What’s next

Bobbett is currently in federal custody and will face charges related to his alleged involvement in human smuggling. The Scottsdale Unified School District has stated they are fully cooperating with the investigation.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing issue of human smuggling and the potential involvement of individuals from various backgrounds, including those with prior employment in public institutions. It underscores the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies to address this complex problem.