FARGO, N.D. (AP) - The owner of a vegetable plant in central North Dakota has pleaded guilty to hiring and housing workers who were living in the country illegally.
Fifty-two-year-old Monte Benz is charged in federal court with harboring the illegal workers. Authorities say he arranged for housing and transportation for the employees at his KIDCO Farms plant in Dawson.
Authorities say about two-dozen illegal workers were found at the plant during a law enforcement search.
The charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. The plea agreement calls for Benz to pay back $100,000 in illegal proceeds.
Benz's lawyer declined to comment after Thursday's hearing.
Richard Shearer, who was hired as a consultant to improve efficiency and supply labor for the plant, pleaded guilty last month to a harboring charge.