Southern District of Texas
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Brownsville repeat criminal gets federal prison time for smuggling cocaineRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 56-year-old man has been ordered to federal prison following his conviction of possession with intent to distribute 8.872 kilograms of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Jose Antonio Garcia Jr. pleaded guilty Feb. 28.
Today, U.S. District Judge David S. Morales ordered Garcia to serve 130 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence regarding Garcia’s lengthy and varied criminal history. Dating back to 1985, he has nine burglary convictions, five thefts, eight drug or alcohol-related crimes and an alien smuggling attempt in 2014.
On Dec. 27, 2021, Garcia drove a white 2012 Freightliner semi-truck into an inspection lane at the Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint located near Falfurrias. During inspection, authorities conducted a search of the vehicle. Law enforcement then referred Garcia to secondary inspection. At that time, they discovered nine bundles in an empty cardboard Huggies diaper box found underneath a sleeper seat inside the truck.
The bundles were later determined to be 8.872 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value of $443,600.
Garcia has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Parker Gochenour prosecuted the case.
Arizona meth conspiracy results in local federal convictionRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas - A 42-year-old Corpus Christi resident has pleaded guilty to conspiring to possess with intent to distribute meth, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Alfredo Delacruz admitted his role in the conspiracy which spanned from March 1 to Oct. 22, 2021.
The investigation began in September 2021. At that time, law enforcement had discovered Delacruz was receiving parcels containing meth from Phoenix, Arizona, to then be distributed in the Corpus Christi area.
On Oct. 21, 2021, authorities executed a search warrant at Delacruz’s residence. There, they discovered money, a ledger, approximately 16 grams of cocaine, several grams of marijuana, a Springfield Arms 9mm semiautomatic pistol, Taurus 9mm pistol, SAR Arms K2P Pistol, SCCY CPX-2 9mm semiautomatic pistol, Ruger .22 Caliber, semiautomatic pistol, Beretta .25 caliber pistol and an ammunition magazine.
Delacruz admitted he made an agreement with a supplier located in Arizona and had sold meth and cocaine for approximately six months. Delacruz received packages containing meth via UPS and sent cash proceeds from the sales to his supplier.
As part of his plea, he took responsibility for 10 to 12 packages, each containing up to five pounds of meth. The total amount of the narcotics exceeded approximately $300,000.
U.S. District Judge Nevla Gonzales Ramos will impose sentencing Aug. 24. At that time, Delacruz faces up to life in prison and a possible $10 million maximum fine.
Delacruz was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Parker Gochenour is prosecuting the case.
Federal agent sent to prison for alien smugglingRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 36-year-old former Border Patrol (BP) agent has been ordered to federal prison for conspiring to transport an undocumented alien within the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Rodney Tolson Jr., Laredo, pleaded guilty July 15, 2021.
Today, U.S. District Judge Diana Saldana ordered him to serve a 21-month sentence to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, Judge Saldana noted Tolson’s actions were extremely egregious and that he had abused the public’s trust while committing this offense as a federal agent.
At the time of his plea, Tolson admitted he conspired with others to permit the passage of undocumented aliens into the country. He used his position as a BP agent by coordinating lane assignments at the IH-35 BP checkpoint north of Laredo.
His co-conspirators paid him for each non-U.S. citizen he allowed through the checkpoint.
Previously released on bond, Tolson was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the future.
The Department of Homeland Security - Office of Inspector General and Customs and Border Protection - Office of Professional Responsibility conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney José Angel Moreno prosecuted the case.
Convicted murderer sent to prison for illegally possessing pistolRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 34-year-old Houston man has been ordered to federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Willie Randolph Moss Jr. pleaded guilty March 3.
Today, U.S. District Judge Diana Saldana handed Moss a 33-month term of imprisonment to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court reiterated evidence that detailed how Moss attempted to blame someone else for having the firearm. Moss knew he was a convicted felon and could not use or possess a firearm.
The court also noted the firearm was stolen.
In handing down the sentence, the court considered his past criminal history and dangerous offenses. Judge Saldana also addressed his poor decision to drive from Houston to Laredo for criminal purposes and challenged Moss to take responsibility to avoid future criminal conduct.
On Jan. 15, authorities found him in possession of a pistol while traveling on IH-35 north of Laredo Texas in an effort to circumvent a Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint.
Moss is a convicted felon. He was previously sent to prison for 15 years in 2006 for committing murder during a robbery. As such, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition.
Moss has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Isaac is prosecuting the case.
Texas man admits to smuggling 31 in refrigerated trailerRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 37-year-old San Benito man has pleaded guilty to illegally transporting undocumented aliens within the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Eric Mendiola admitted to smuggling the individuals while driving an 18-wheeler.
On March 20, Mendiola drove a tractor trailer into the Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint near Sarita. A K-9 soon alerted authorities to the presence of concealed humans. Law enforcement opened the doors of the trailer and discovered individuals hiding behind a load of produce.
In the trailer were 19 Mexican nationals, five Columbian nationals, four Guatemalan nationals, two El Salvadorian nationals and one Honduran national. All were determined to be in the United States illegally. In addition, the temperature inside the refrigerated trailer was 41 degrees Fahrenheit.
U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton will impose sentencing Aug. 17. At that time, Mendiola faces up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 fine.
Mendiola has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of BP. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Marck is prosecuting the case.
Local man admits to illegally selling firearmsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 38-year-old Houston resident has pleaded guilty to unlawfully dealing firearms without a license, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Qusay Waleed Taha admitted to purchasing more than 100 firearms between July 11, 2018, and Aug. 19, 2019, in order to resell for profit. Taha also admitted he repeatedly bought firearms though licensed dealers and sold them to local individuals at gun shows.
U.S. District Judge George C. Hanks Jr. will impose sentencing Aug. 11. At that time, Taha faces up to five years in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Taha has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
The FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Steven Schammel and Heather Winter are prosecuting the case.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Physician Assistant Convicted of Distributing over 1.2 Million Opioid PillsRead the Press Release
A Texas physician assistant was convicted today for distributing more than 1.2 million opioid pills during his employment at two Houston-area clinics that operated as pill mills.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, physician assistant Charles Thompson, 76, of Houston, illegally prescribed and helped others illegally prescribe controlled substances to individuals posing as patients at West Parker Medical Clinic (West Parker) and Priority Wellness Clinic (Priority Wellness).
Trial evidence showed that from June 2015 through July 2016, while at West Parker, Thompson helped a doctor unlawfully prescribe hydrocodone and carisoprodol, a combination of controlled substances known as the “Las Vegas Cocktail,” to thousands of individuals posing as patients. Thompson himself also issued unlawful prescriptions for carisoprodol (a muscle relaxant). So-called “runners” brought numerous people to pose as patients at West Parker and paid the clinic approximately $220 to $500 in cash for each visit that resulted in prescriptions for dangerous drugs. Throughout the scheme, West Parker made approximately $1.75 million from prescriptions, from which Thompson was paid over $208,000. A jury previously convicted James Pierre, the doctor who worked at West Parker, of unlawfully prescribing over one million opioid pills.
Court documents and trial evidence also show that Thompson helped others illegally prescribe controlled substances, including hydrocodone and oxycodone, at Priority Wellness from May to July 2017, which opened in December 2016 after West Parker closed. Trial evidence showed that Priority Wellness operated as a pill mill, in a similar manner to West Parker: runners brought people posing as patients to Priority Wellness and paid the clinic between $300 and $600, depending on whether the purported patient was getting a prescription for hydrocodone or oxycodone, almost always prescribed in combination with carisoprodol. Throughout the scheme, Priority Wellness made approximately $1.1 million and Thompson made between $700 and $900 per day in cash.
Thompson was convicted of one count of conspiracy to unlawfully distribute and dispense controlled substances and seven counts of unlawfully distributing and dispensing controlled substances in connection with his conduct at West Parker. He was convicted of one count of conspiracy to unlawfully distribute and dispense controlled substances and one count of unlawfully distributing and dispensing controlled substances in connection with his conduct at Priority Wellness. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 3 and faces up to 20 years in prison for each count of conviction. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
To date, six individuals have pleaded guilty in connection with their conduct at West Parker or Priority Wellness.
Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Jennifer Lowery for the Southern District of Texas; and Special Agent in Charge Daniel C. Comeaux of the DEA’s Houston Division made the announcement.
DEA Houston investigated the case.
Assistant Chief Aleza Remis and Trial Attorney Maryam Adeyola of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Trial Attorney John-Alex Romano of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jon Muschenheim for the Southern District of Texas is handling forfeiture.
Three convicted for $500,000 Mexican cartel weapon schemeRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – Three individuals have admitted to their roles in a conspiracy for Cartel del Noreste (CDN), announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Luis Ramos, 44, Rio Bravo, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to commit international money laundering. Co-conspirators Manuel Perez-Ortiz, 40, Mexico, and Arturo Mata Jr., 55, also of Rio Bravo, pleaded guilty for their roles in the same conspiracy April 28.
In May 2020, members of CDN began negotiations to purchase $500,000 worth of high-powered weapons including machine guns, grenades, military-style rifles and rocket-propelled launchers. The weapons were intended to be purchased in the United States and then smuggled into Mexico. CDN planned to use them in fights against rival cartels to further their drug smuggling activities. Cartel members sent Perez-Ortiz to conduct the weapon exchange in Laredo.
On June 19, 2020, Ramos and Perez-Ortiz met with whom they thought were U.S.-based weapon facilitators at an H-E-B parking lot. There, they showed the money they had to purchase the weapons. Authorities stopped Ramos and Perez-Ortiz after they departed the parking lot. Law enforcement discovered a cardboard box inside the vehicle containing $500,000 in cash and a firearm in Perez-Ortiz’s possession.
Ramos and Mata assisted in driving Perez-Ortiz to and from the meetings to discuss the sale of weapons. Mata also provided surveillance.
As part of their pleas, Ramos and Perez-Ortiz admitted they concocted a story to tell authorities that the money came from the sale of a ranch in Mexico and they were planning to buy land in Laredo to build a home. Perez-Ortiz later admitted he had illegally crossed into the country the day before with $500,000 by wading the Rio Grande river.
All three co-conspirators are scheduled for sentencing before U.S. District Judge Diana Saldana in the near future. They each face up to 20 years in prison, a possible $1 million maximum fine and forfeiture of $500,000. They have been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
This case was part of the Blue Indigo Task Force and brought as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation dubbed Operation Noreste. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Laredo Police Department conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Day is prosecuting this case.
OCDETF is the largest anti-crime task force in the country. Its mission is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage.
Local woman charged with preparing false income tax returnsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A tax preparer has been arrested on charges she was responsible for more than a dozen fraudulent tax returns, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Authorities took Cheryl Kissentaner into custody today. She is expected to make her initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christina A. Bryan at 2 p.m.
A federal grand jury returned the 15-count indictment March 30.
The indictment alleges that from 2015 to 2018, Kissentaner fraudulently prepared 15 false income tax returns for clients.
If convicted, Kissentaner faces up to three years of prison and up to a $250,000 fine for each count.
IRS-Criminal Investtigation conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin R. Martin is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.Felon sent to prison for firearm charge while on bondRead the Press Release
GALVESTON – A 63-year-old Blessing resident has been ordered to prison following his conviction of being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Michael Gene Richardson pleaded guilty Oct. 13, 2021.
Today, U.S. District Judge Jeffery V. Brown ordered Richardson to serve 90 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court noted the large amount of firearms Richardson possessed.
Richardson is a convicted felon and was arrested in 2018 following a drug investigation. Following a search of his residence, authorities found more than 50 firearms, ammunition and suspected improvised bombs.
As a convicted felon, he is prohibited per federal law of possessing firearms or ammunition. As such, he was charged again in 2019. Prior to trial and while on bond, law enforcement found in possession of an additional firearm and ammunition.
The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Matagorda County Sherriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Steven Schammel and Richard Bennett prosecuted the case.
“Lunchtime Looter” charged in multiple crimesRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 35-year-old Houston man is set to make his appearance in federal court for allegedly committing multiple bank robberies in the Houston area, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Marques Bryant is charged with four counts of bank robbery. He is currently in federal custody and set for initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sam S. Sheldon today at 2 p.m.
The criminal complaint, filed May 3, alleges Bryant committed four bank robberies in the Houston area and is allegedly connected to a separate bank robbery in Chicago.
From January to March, Bryant allegedly robbed IBC Bank, Wells Fargo Bank, Comerica Bank and PNC Bank. The charges allege that during each robbery, Bryant demanded money via a handwritten note, wore a black and white face mask, black jacket and White Sox hat. He then allegedly fled on foot following each robbery.
On March 15, Bryant also robbed a Chase Bank in Illinois, according to the complaint. There, he allegedly demanded money with a handwritten note which read “give me all the money in the drawer. Don’t call nobody no typing in the computer. Put it in a envelope. Will shoot.”
According to the complaint, he allegedly wore the same clothes and several accessories as during the Houston area robberies. The notes used during all the robberies also appear to be very similar, according to the charges.
If convicted, Bryant faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
The FBI Violent Crimes Task Force conducted the investigation with assistance from state and local law enforcement partners in Houston and Chicago. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jill Stotts is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.Visa holder indicted trafficking cocaine through WTBRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 31-year-old Mexican National who resided in Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, has been charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Today, a federal grand jury returned the two-count indictment against Sergio Bustos-Cruz. He is expected to appear for his arraignment in the near future before U.S. Magistrate Judge Diana Song Quiroga.
Originally charged by criminal complaint, Bustos-Cruz allegedly attempted to drive through the World Trade Bridge in Laredo on April 21. Upon arrival, authorities referred him to secondary inspection where an X-ray can of his vehicle revealed anomalies within the roof of the tractor cab, according to the charges.
Upon further inspection, law enforcement allegedly discovered several bundles containing 11.62 kilograms of cocaine.
The charges further allege he in violation of the terms of his non-immigrant Visa and could face removal proceedings following his .
If convicted, Bustos-Cruz faces up to life in prison and a possible $10 million maximum fine.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Isaac is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Two charged for smuggling over 100 people through Laredo checkpointsRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A Laredo federal grand jury has returned two separate and unrelated indictments which involve transporting and/or smuggling of large groups of undocumented aliens via tractor trailers, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
David William McKeon, 67, Laredo, and Ramiro Leija-Urbina, 31, Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, are charged in a three and two-count indictment, respectively. They are both expected to appear for their arraignments before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the near future.
Both were originally charged by criminal complaint and have remained in custody.
The first indictment alleges that on April 20, McKeon drove a tractor trailer to the Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint on Interstate Highway 35. During initial inspection, law enforcement heard noises coming from inside of the trailer, according to the charges. They opened the doors and allegedly discovered 124 non-U.S. citizens including two unaccompanied minors. The indictment alleges all were determined to be illegally present in the country.
McKeon had an expired commercial driver’s license and was to be paid for driving the vehicle to San Antonio, according to the charges.
A separate, but similar indictment against Leija-Urbina alleges he attempted to drive a tractor trailer though the Interstate Highway 35 BP checkpoint in Laredo. There, a K-9 allegedly alerted authorities to the presence of concealed humans, according to the charges.
Upon further inspection, law enforcement allegedly discovered 160 non-U.S. citizens in the trailer. All were determined to be illegally present in the United States, according to the charges.
Leija-Urbina is a also non-immigrant visa holder and could face removal proceedings if convicted.
McKeon is charged with human smuggling and faces up to 30 years in prison, while Leija-Urbina faces up to 10 years, upon conviction for illegally transporting undocumented aliens.
Both could also be ordered to pay up to $250,000 in fines.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted both investigations with assistance from BP. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Bajew and Matthew Isaac are prosecuting the McKeon and Leija-Urbina cases, respectively.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.Jury convicts out-of-state man for human smuggling in TexasRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A federal jury has convicted a 54-year-old Chicago, Illinois, man for transporting illegal aliens in a tractor trailer, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
The jury deliberated for approximately 90 minutes before convicting Jose Luis Gutierrez-Plascencia following a two-day trial.
On Sept. 17, 2020, Jose Luis Gutierrez-Plascencia entered the Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint near Sarita while driving a white Freightliner commercial tractor and pulling an enclosed trailer. At trial, the jury heard testimony that Gutierrez-Plascencia had told authorities he was hauling a load of watermelons to Chicago. Law enforcement testified that he had displayed nervous behavior and answered questions rapidly.
The jury also saw an X-ray scan conducted at the scene that revealed anomalies – human bodies. Law enforcement had physically searched the vehicle and also discovered four aliens hiding in the cab of the tractor. Upon further inspection, they unlocked the trailer, with a key from Gutierrez-Plascencia’s keychain, and found three more individuals lying down inside the trailer. There were no watermelons in the vehicle.
It was later determined that the total of seven non-U.S. citizens were illegally present in the country. Two of the seven testified at trial and identified Gutierrez-Plascencia as the driver.
U.S. District Judge David S. Morales presided over trial and set sentencing for Aug. 11. At that time, Gutierrez-Plascencia faces up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
BP conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joel Dunn and Ashley Martin are prosecuting the case.
Houston area residents charged in kickback schemeRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – The final defendants in a health care fraud scheme involving local pharmacies and a pain clinic are set to make their appearances in Houston federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Charles Willis, 57, Flower Mound, appeared for his arraignment on the federal indictment at 10 a.m. today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christina Bryan. Henry Gonzales, 48, is charged in a related criminal information and expected to make his initial appearance tomorrow at 2 p.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sam Sheldon.
Four others are charged in the six-count indictment returned April 27 along with Willis. Tronown Thomas, 44, Spring, Willie McDonald, 69, Humble, Ronald Kwan, 60, Missouri City, and Valdi Tatan, 37, Richmond, have all already made their appearances in Houston federal court.
Gonzales owned Option 1 Pain & Rehab Clinic (formerly Direct Medical Clinic) in Houston as well as Farmacia, a pharmacy located in Houston, according to the charges.
According to the indictment, Thomas was the owner of Rayford ACP Pharmacy, Willis worked as a doctor at Option 1 and Tatan and Kwan were pharmacists for Farmacia.
Gonzales allegedly paid kickbacks to McDonald to recruit and refer federal employee patients to Direct Medical/Option 1. There, Willis would see patients and, at the request of Gonzalez who paid him in kickbacks, prescribed medically unnecessary drugs, according to the charges.
The charges also allege that at Farmacia, Tatan and Kwan were paid in kickbacks to fill the compounded drug prescriptions. Farmacia and Rayford ACP would then allegedly bill the Department of Labor (DOL) Federal Employee Compensation Program. Gonzales and Thomas would disburse the funds amongst the conspirators, according to the indictment.
If convicted, all five face up to five years in federal prison for the conspiracy and up to 10 years for the related health care fraud charges.
Thomas and Willis are also charged with conspiracy to launder money and face another 10-year-term of imprisonment.
The Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Inspector General (OIG), DOL – OIG and U.S. Postal Service - OIG conducted the investigation with the assistance of FBI and Defense Criminal Investigative Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Grace Murphy and Tina Ansari are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.Californian charged with smuggling over $114,000 in taxiRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A 26-year-old woman from California was residing in Atlanta, Georgia, has been indicted for smuggling cash into Mexico from the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Today, a federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment against Rosa Maria Zuniga-Sagrero. She is expected to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Scott Hacker for her arraignment in the near future.
According to the complaint originally filed in the case, Zuniga-Sagrero attempted to pass through a Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint while a passenger in a taxi.
Authorities referred the vehicle to secondary inspection, at which time she allegedly made a negative declaration for having in excess of $10,000. However, A search of Zuniga’s jacket pockets revealed three sealed packages and a total of $114,294 in her purse, according to the charges.
If convicted, Zuniga faces up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eliza Carmen Rodriguez is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Former school aid sentenced to federal prison for child pornography chargeRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A 43-year-old McAllen resident has been ordered to federal prison for receipt of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Ramiro Vasquez pleaded guilty March 3, 2021.
Today, U.S. District Judge Randy Crane imposed a 121-month term of imprisonment. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the amount of child pornography Vasquez had downloaded. The court also ordered him to pay $3,000 in restitution to each of the 20 identified victims. Judge Crane further noted Vasquez’s employment as an instructional assistant for a McAllen Independent School District elementary school. Vasquez must also serve eight years on supervised release following completion of his prison term, during which time he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Vasquez will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
In January 2020, authorities began an investigation into child sexual abuse material sharing on the internet. This led them to Vasquez and his address in McAllen.
Law enforcement executed a search at his residence and seized multiple electronic and digital devices. During this time, they noted one of the devices was currently in the process of downloading child sexual abuse material. Forensic analysis resulted in the discovery of 8,601 unique images and 1,366 videos of child sexual abuse material.
Vasquez has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Homeland Security Investigations – Rio Grande Valley Child Exploitation Task Force conducted the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Mitchell is prosecuting the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.
Federal agent admits to violating civil rights of a Honduran teenagerRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A 28-year-old former Border Patrol (BP) employee has pleaded guilty to violating the constitutional rights of a Honduran teenager, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Gregson Martinez, Brownsville, pleaded guilty to acting under color of law and utilizing unreasonable force by striking a 17-year-old unaccompanied Honduran citizen.
On July 21, 2021, authorities apprehended the teenager near Hidalgo and transported him to the Donna Processing Center. Martinez worked there as a BP processing coordinator.
While questioning him as to his age and citizenship, Martinez struck the 17-year-old male across the face.
Martinez was terminated Aug. 2, 2021.
Sentencing has been set for June 24, at which time Martinez faces up to a year in federal prison and a possible $100,000 maximum fine. He was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.
Department of Homeland Security - Office of Inspector General and Customs and Border Protection - Office of Professional Responsibility conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura Garcia is prosecuting the case.
Pharr man admits to trafficking over $600K of narcoticsRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A 30-year-old Texan has pleaded guilty to smuggling heroin and meth, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Gerardo Jimenez admitted that on Nov. 3, 2020, he knowingly entered the Hidalgo Border Patrol (BP) Port of Entry with drugs in his car.
Upon inspection, a K-9 alerted authorities to the hood of Jimenez’s vehicle. Authorities soon discovered four kilograms of heroin and two kilograms of 100% pure meth concealed in the battery of his car.
The drugs had an estimated street value of $654,000.
U.S. District Judge Micaela Alvarez will impose sentencing Aug. 19. At that time, he faces a minimum of 10 years in federal prison and a possible $10 million maximum fine.
Jimenez has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eliza Carmen Rodriguez is prosecuting the case.
Houstonian faces federal penalties in HPD officer shootingRead the Press Release
HOUSTON ‐ A 23-year-old Pasadena man has been charged with firearm and drug trafficking offenses for his role in the shooting of a Houston Police Department (HPD) officer, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer Lowery.
Jimmy Caston Bryan is currently in state custody and will be transferred to make his initial appearance before a U.S. magistrate judge in the near future.
According to the federal criminal complaint filed today, Bryan fired multiple shots at an HPD officer on May 4 in the area of 14300 Gulf Freeway in Houston.
Bryan previously trafficked narcotics in the Houston area, had meth and was possibly in the possession of multiple firearms, according to charges. This led to a traffic stop May 4, at which time two HPD officers allegedly approached Bryan’s truck and requested identifying information.
The complaint alleges he could not do so, which led authorities to ask him to step out of the vehicle. As one officer opened Bryan’s door, Bryan quickly reached into his waistband pulled out a semi-automatic handgun, according to the complaint. He allegedly shot and struck the other HPD officer twice - once in the chest and once in the right hip.
The charges further allege both officers returned gunfire and struck Bryan.
A search of Bryan’s vehicle allegedly revealed over 120 grams of meth and a digital scale as well as two handguns.
Bryan is charged with use or carry a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime and possession with intent to distribute meth. If convicted, he faces a minimum of 10 years in prison and up life for the drug charges as well as a minimum of 10 years for using the firearm which must be served consecutively to the other prison term imposed.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Houston Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Day is prosecuting the case.
Alice man gets 30 years for producing child pornographyRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 41-year-old local man has been ordered to federal prison for forcing a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer Lowery.
Mauricio Ruiz pleaded guilty Jan. 7.
Today, U.S. District Judge Nelva G. Ramos handed Ruiz a sentence of 360 months, noting the case’s “horrific facts.” At the hearing, the court heard emotionally-moving victim impact statements detailing how Ruiz continuously tormented the minor. Ruiz will serve the rest of his life on supervised release following completion of his prison term during which time he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Ruiz will also be ordered to register as a sex offender. Restitution will be determined at a later date.
At the time of his plea, he admitted to recording illicit videos and images over the course of several years with a minor victim. He raped the minor on multiple occasions and recorded the events. He also threatened to kill members of her family if she ever told anyone.
On Oct. 30, 2020, law enforcement arrested Ruiz at his workplace after learning he was sexually assaulting the girl. The investigation revealed Ruiz possessed more than 34 images and 20 videos of sexual abuse on his work computer.
Ruiz has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Jim Wells County Sheriff’s Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Molly K. Smith and Dennis E. Robinson prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources link on that page.
Man convicted for smuggling nearly 80 and pregnant minor in trailerRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A federal jury in Laredo has convicted a 52-year-old legal permanent resident of North Carolina for alien smuggling, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
The jury deliberated for approximately four hours before convicting Aurelio Barajas-Pulido following a one-day trial.
During that trial, the jury heard that on Feb. 8, Barajas-Pulido attempted to drive a tractor trailer through the Interstate Highway 35 checkpoint in Laredo. At inspection, Barajas-Pulido demonstrated suspicious behavior. A K-9 also alerted authorities to the presence of concealed humans.
Law enforcement referred him for further inspection, after which they found a total of 80 undocumented citizens in the trailer including three unaccompanied minors, one of whom was pregnant. All were determined to be in the United States illegally.
At trial, the defense attempted to convince the jury that Barajas-Pulido did not have knowledge that he was smuggling undocumented persons. However, they heard testimony from material witnesses who described their journey from their home country to the tractor trailer Barajas-Pulido drove. Law enforcement also provided testimony about how his story was not logical.
The jury ultimately did not believe defense claims and found him guilty.
U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo presided over trial and will set sentencing for a future date. At that time, Barajas-Pulido faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
As a legal permanent resident, Barajas-Pulido could lose his status in the United States.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew Isaac and Brandon Bowling are prosecuting the case.
Jury convicts Louisiana man for smuggling 52 in trailerRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A federal jury in Laredo has convicted a 47-year-old for conspiring to transport and transporting undocumented aliens within the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
The jury deliberated for over three hours before convicting Roderick DeWayne Chisley, of Monroe, Louisiana, following a three-day trial.
The jury heard that on Dec. 17, 2021, authorities stopped Chisley shortly after he passed through the Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint on I-35.
Authorities discovered the tractor trailer he was driving was stolen. Upon further inspection, law enforcement found 52 undocumented individuals in the trailer. They were later determined to be illegally present in the country.
Chisley admitted he was going to be paid $50,000 to transport the tractor trailer from Laredo to San Antonio.
At trial, law enforcement testimony explained the laws governing the commercial trucking industry and about standard practices of truck drivers.
The defense attempted to convince the jury that Chisley had no knowledge of the 52 aliens in his trailer.
However, the jury heard additional testimony from two of the undocumented aliens. They described how the vehicle began moving almost immediately after they entered the trailer. It did not stop until they reached the checkpoint.
The jury did not believe the defense story and found Chisley guilty as charged.
U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña presided over trial and will set sentencing at a future date. At that time, Chisley faces up to 10 years of imprisonment and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Chisley will remain in custody pending that hearing.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of BP. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Fawcett and Aaron Petters are prosecuting the case.
Fleeing felon convicted for firearm and methRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A federal jury in Corpus Christi has convicted a 39-year-old local man for possessing with the intent to distribute narcotics, being a felon in possession of a firearm and possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
The jury deliberated for less than two hours before convicting Jason Ramirez following a two-day trial.
The jury heard that on Feb. 29, 2020, law enforcement pursued Ramirez after he failed to yield at a stop sign. He soon crashed into a concrete fountain at a nearby park and fled on foot. Shortly after, they discovered Ramirez in a nearby neighborhood and arrested him.
At the time of arrest, authorities discovered a pistol and meth in Ramirez’s vehicle. A subsequent search of his phone revealed messages regarding the selling of drugs as well as pictures of Ramirez posing with the firearm.
The defense attempted to convince the jury that the gun and meth in the car did not belong to Ramirez. However, they saw video evidence of Ramirez fleeing from the vehicle and footage showing the discovery of the weapon and the narcotics. The jury did not believe defense claims and convicted him as charged.
U.S. District Judge Nelva G. Ramos presided over trial and set sentencing for Aug. 2. At that time, Rodriguez faces up to life in federal prison and a possible $10 million maximum fine.
Ramirez will remain in custody pending that hearing.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Corpus Christi Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Roland Swanson and Dennis Robinson are prosecuting the case.
El Salvadorian felon convicted of third-time unlawful entryRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 46-year-old man has been found guilty of illegal re-entry into the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Today, U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton deliberated for five hours before handing down a guilty verdict against Jose Villatoro-Avila following a two-day bench trial. Villatoro-Avila is a citizen of El Salvador who was found illegally present within the United States. He was previously twice convicted of the same crime.
Evidence and testimony showed that on April 6, 2021, law enforcement apprehended Villatoro-Avila in Kenedy County while he was trying to circumvent the Javier Vega Jr. checkpoint. Authorities quickly pursued and were able to apprehend him while he was still in the brush.
The judge also heard that Villatoro-Avila had been convicted - twice - of illegal re-entry into the United States. At a previous sentencing, he told the court “I promise I will never come back here if you give me leniency.”
However, evidence and testimony revealed he unlawfully returned to the country two more times after making that promise to the judge. The investigation further revealed he had been removed from the country multiple times beginning in 1999 and as recently as 2016.
At trial, the court heard how authorities had used his fingerprints to make the identification, thus revealing the previous deportations.
During trial, the defense attempted to convince the court there was a possibility of evidence that showed Villatoro-Avila had received permission to re-enter the United States from appropriate authorities. The defense also attacked the credibility of fingerprint testimony and his identification at the time of his previous removals from the country.
Judge Tipton did not believe the claims and found Villatoro-Avila guilty as charged.
Villatoro-Avila is set for sentencing Aug. 3. At that time, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
Border Patrol conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys J. Parker Gochenour and Christopher Marin are prosecuting the case.
Local woman ordered to prison for aggravated identity theftRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 43-year-old Houston resident has been sent to prison following her conviction of using stolen personal information to obtain over $1,000, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Daneshia Shane Walton pleaded guilty Jan. 18.
Today, U.S. District Judge Andrew Hanen ordered Walton to serve 24 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by one year of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, the court noted Walton was still a young woman. He hoped the statement she made to the court prior to sentencing that she was no longer the same person who committed this crime was true.
At the time of her plea, Walton admitted that on July 5, 2013, she used a victim’s name, address and Social Security number to fraudulently obtain a Mastercard at a Marshalls department store located in Houston.
On that day, Walton then used the credit card to purchase two gift cards in the amount of $600 each.
Walton was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Secret Service conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Braddock prosecuted the case.
Houston area man arrested for $1.2M nationwide telemarketing schemeRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 46-year-old man has been arrested for participating in a telemarketing scheme that scammed over 100 individuals and received over $1 million in fraudulently collected funds, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Law enforcement took Michael K. Laurendeau into custody this morning. Formerly of Pearland and now residing in Houston, he is expected to make his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sam S. Sheldon today at 2 p.m.
According to the 15-count indictment returned May 4 and unsealed today upon his arrest, Laurendeau is the owner of E-Business Financial LLC and Blue Star Hosting LLC.
From January 2015 to August 2019, Laurendeau and co-conspirators allegedly deceived over 134 victims by convincing them they were entitled to unclaimed money from prior investments in websites or webpage domains. Laurendeau and others told them they had to pay fees or taxes via certified checks or money orders to Laurendeau’s businesses to receive their money, according to the allegations.
Laurendeau and co-conspirators allegedly used aliases such as Richard Phelps, Ian Sharpe, Kelly Fisher and Mary Benson to victimize people who lived all over the country, many of whom were over the age of 55.
The indictment further alleges none of the victims ever received any funds from this scheme. Additionally, Laurendeau convinced many of the victims to send in additional checks after the victims did not receive any return on their first payments, according to the charges.
As a result of their scheme, Laurendeau and others allegedly received over $1.2 million. The indictment alleges the money was then spent on trips, dinners, a car and other goods.
Laurendeau is charged with conspiracy to commit mail fraud and 14 counts of mail fraud. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine on each count.
The Pearland Police Department and the FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Wakefield is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Tax service owner admits to failing to pay federal withholdingsRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A CEO has pleaded guilty to failing to truthfully account for and to pay over withholdings of federal income and FICA taxes from the wages of his employees to the IRS, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Alejandro Joael Colbert was majority owner and CEO of Colbert Ball Tax Service in Houston. Its main purpose was franchising tax preparation businesses across the country.
According to the plea agreement, Colbert admitted that from 2015 to 2018, he failed to file employment tax returns and did not pay all taxes withheld from the wages of employees to the IRS.
Colbert admitted he caused approximately $710,000 in tax revenue loss. He has agreed to pay more than $196,000 in restitution to the IRS – the amount of withholdings from employee wages for the quarters in years 2015-2018 that remained unpaid at the time he was charged.
To date, he has paid $120,000 towards that restitution.
U.S. District Judge Sim Lake set sentencing for Aug. 12. At that time, Colbert faces up to five years in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Colbert was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.
IRS – Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles J. Escher is prosecuting the case.
Local man charged for importing powerful psychedelicRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A 25-year-old McAllen resident has been indicted for importing dimethyltryptamine (DMT) from Brazil, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Today, a federal grand jury returned a four-count indictment against Mario Alberto Molina. He is expected to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Nadia Medrano for his arraignment in the near future.
According to the complaint originally filed in the case, authorities performed a routine inspection of an inbound package originating from Brazil in Miami, Florida. It was allegedly destined for Molina’s residence in McAllen. The charges allege the package was purported to be marked as natural dye for tie-dye purposes, but authorities allegedly discovered a powdery substance later determined to be 4.5 kilograms of DMT.
On April 7, law enforcement executed a controlled delivery of the package at Molina’s residence, according to the complaint, after which they executed a federal search warrant. There, they allegedly found Molina and recovered the open package.
DMT is a powerful hallucinogenic drug, most often in the form of a powder when synthetically constructed, with intense effects comparable to that of other psychedelic drugs. It is the primary psychoactive ingredient in the drug ayahuasca and is a Schedule I controlled substance.
If convicted, Molina faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $1million maximum fine.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Brostowin is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.Armed drug dealer who sold drugs with child in house sent to prisonRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 31-year-old Corpus Christi man has been sentenced for conspiring to possess with intent to distribute meth and carrying a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Alec Michael Garcia pleaded guilty Feb. 9.
Today, U.S. District Judge David S Morales ordered Garcia to serve 195 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release.
“Removing armed drug dealers from our streets has an immediate impact on the safety of our communities,” said Special Agent in Charge Fred Milanowski of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). “ATF is absolutely committed to working with our law enforcement partners to ensure that those who bring dangerous drugs and firearms into our neighborhoods are held accountable for their actions.”
Authorities executed a search warrant at a residence in Corpus Christi in August 2021. At that time, they arrested Garcia and his co-conspirators, Jesus and Anna Sustaita. During the search, they found over 50 grams of meth; nearly two kilograms of pills containing fentanyl, alprazolam and meth; LSD; approximately two kilograms of marijuana as well as numerous THC products, nine loaded firearms, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, body armor and U.S. currency.
At the time of search, authorities found that Anna Sustaita’s 8-year-old son was also living at the residence, which was located across the street from an elementary school.
Jesus, 26, and Anna Sustaita, 24, also of Corpus Christi, were both sentenced earlier this year to 135 months in federal prison.
Garcia will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Corpus Christi Police Department’s Gang Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Barbara J. De Peña prosecuted the case.
Alien smuggler faces up to life for three deathsRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 23-year-old Laredo resident has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to transport undocumented aliens resulting in death, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Abraham J. Ahumada admitted to leaving the victims behind after a car accident.
On Nov. 13, 2021, Ahumada drove a black Nissan Murano down U.S. Highway 83. Law enforcement attempted to pull him over, but he proceeded to flee. He did not yield and instead accelerated above the speed limit.
Ahumada disregarded a red light during the pursuit along U.S. 83 and collided with a passenger vehicle crossing the intersection with the right of way. The collision resulted in three deaths.
Two individuals in Ahumada’s vehicle were pronounced dead on the scene as well as a woman who was traveling in the struck vehicle with children. The three children suffered major bodily injuries and were taken to a local hospital for treatment.
Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo will impose sentencing July 28. At that time, he faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with Customs and Border Protection and Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Francisco J. Rodriguez is prosecuting the case.
South Texas man sentenced for smuggling 17 kilos of methRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 55-year-old Ennis resident has been ordered to federal prison following his conviction of possession with the intent to distribute kilograms of meth, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Enrique Perez pleaded guilty Feb. 8.
Today, U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton ordered Perez to serve 120 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release.
On Dec. 1, 2021, Perez arrived at the Javier Vega Jr. Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint driving a maroon Chrysler sedan. Authorities believed he was carrying illegal narcotics and referred him to secondary inspection.
There, they discovered Zip-loc packages containing a crystal-like substance in the doors and trunk of the vehicle. It was later determined to be 17.659 kilograms of meth with an estimated street value of $529,770.
At the time of his plea, Perez admitted that he agreed to transport the drugs to Houston for $6,000.
Previously released on bond, Perez was taken into custody following the sentencing today where he will remain pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Parker Gochenour prosecuted the case.
Egyptian citizen gets massive sentence for sexually coercing Texas minorRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 49-year-old man living in Massachusetts has been ordered to federal prison for nearly 34 years following multiple convictions of child exploitation, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
On Nov. 18, 2021, U.S. District Judge David S. Morales found Ehab Sadeek guilty following a one-day bench trial.
Today, Judge Morales the court sentenced Sadeek to 405 months in federal prison.
Calling the matter one of the most “egregious cases” before the court, Judge Morales considered the emotionally moving victim statements which described the trauma that Sadeek’s misconduct caused the minor and her family. The court noted how Sadeek “terrorized an innocent” in committing his crime.
Sadeek will also serve the rest of his life on supervised release following completion of his prison term, during which time he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. He will also be ordered to register as a sex offender and pay restitution to the minor victim.
On May 26, 2020, law enforcement responded to a call about a suspicious individual walking near a residence in a rural area of Corpus Christi. They discovered Sadeek outside the victim’s home.
The investigation revealed that Sadeek had groomed the minor and sent sexually explicit messages via social media for approximately two weeks. He then traveled from Massachusetts to Texas with the intent to engage sexually with the girl.
Sadeek will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of the George West Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Molly K. Smith and Dennis E. Robinson prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources link on that page.
Another Texan sentenced for dealing drugs on behalf of Texas “Mexikan” MafiaRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 29-year-old Corpus Christi resident has been ordered to federal prison for his role in a large drug conspiracy involving heroin, cocaine, crack cocaine and meth, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Joe Daniel Davila pleaded guilty July 23, 2021.
Today, U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos ordered Davila to serve 120 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that detailed Davila’s role as a distributor of narcotics at various drug houses located within Corpus Christi and Robstown.
Davila was selling the narcotics at drug premises aka “trap houses” which the Texas “Mexikan” Mafia (TMM) operated. Many of these homes were equipped with electronic security systems and had doors reinforced with braces to make possible law enforcement entry difficult. Authorities also found firearms in some of these “trap houses.” Davila would oversee the selling of drugs at some of these houses and make sure the profits of the sales would go to the leadership of TMM.
The investigation began in Robstown in 2015. Law enforcement was eventually able to discover the TMM was operating these houses in both Robstown and Corpus Christi and maintaining the premises as one of their sources of income.
The TMM has a constitution that governs the enterprise which states that 10% percent of the profits from any member’s business or interest shall be contributed to the organization. TMM collects this fee, referred to as “the dime,” from members, prospective members and sympathizers. These individuals also earn their income by trafficking in illegal drugs on their own which TMM then distributes – to include heroin, meth and cocaine.
Nine others have been convicted as part of the overall conspiracy.
Robert Martinez Hinojosa, 63, Alice; and Matthew John Sayles, 42, Raul Benavides, 48, Juan Lebrado Pena, 31, and Gilberto Saldana Jr., 41, all of Corpus Christi, pleaded guilty to violating the Racketeer Influence Corrupt Organization (RICO) statute. Hinojosa received 268 months, while Sayles, Benavides, Pena and Saldana received respective sentences of 90, 108, 210 and 271 months.
Four others were convicted of conspiring to distribute narcotics - Sergio Pena, 26, Danny Ray Martinez, 32, and Serenity McCracken, 44, all of Corpus Christi; and Raul Valdez, 47, San Antonio. Pena and Martinez each received 120 month-prison terms, while McCracken is serving 36 months. Valdez is pending sentencing.
All have been and remain in custody. Davila is pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Drug Enforcement Administration; FBI; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; U.S Marshals Service; IRS - Criminal Investigation; Texas Department of Public Safety and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation known as Operation Charco Trece. Also providing assistance were sheriff’s offices in Nueces and Victoria Counties and police departments in Corpus Christi, Ingleside, Aransas Pass, Robstown and Portland.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brittany L. Jensen and Michael Hess prosecuted the case.
OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage.
“Suicide Squad” admits to trafficking drugs worth over $1.6MRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – Three individuals have pleaded guilty to conspiracy to import heroin and fentanyl into the United States from Mexico, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Today, Liz Jomayra Diaz-Colon, 23, and Elias Herrera, 30, both admitted to their roles in the conspiracy. Their co-conspirator, Jonathan Guemez, 30, pleaded guilty Dec. 17, 2021. All are from Nashville, Tennessee.
In 2021, Diaz-Colon, Herrera and Guemez began working with Mexican drug traffickers to coordinate transportation of multiple drug loads into the United States.
On Aug. 20, 2021, Diaz-Colon attempted to pass through a Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint. A K-9 alerted to her vehicle which resulted in the discovery of 4.66 kilograms of heroin concealed in the battery of her Jeep Cherokee.
The following day, Herrera attempted to enter the United States. Authorities also discovered narcotics in his vehicle - 4.76 kilograms of fentanyl in the car’s battery.
Guemez also attempted to bring drugs into the country. Law enforcement was able to seize 3.94 kilograms of heroin from his vehicle.
The investigation connected all three people. It revealed they had been communicating with each other through WhatsApp, referring to themselves as the “Suicide Squad.”
At the time of their pleas, they admitted that they had conspired together to import a total of 8.6 kilograms of heroin and 4.76 kilograms of fentanyl into the United States. The drugs have an estimated street value of approximately $1,622,880.
U.S. District Judge Randy Crane will sentence Diaz-Colon July 12, along with Herrera. Guemez will be sentenced May 3. At those times, each faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life with a possible $10 million maximum fine.
All three have been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eliza Carmen Rodriguez is prosecuting the case.
“Eye in the sky” results in conviction for human smugglerRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A federal jury has convicted a 36-year-old Mexican citizen illegally residing in Port Isabel for conspiracy and transporting aliens within the country, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
The jury deliberated for approximately 90 minutes before convicting Maynor Bernardo Guerrero-Ramirez following a three-day trial which included six witnesses.
On July 21, 2021, law enforcement pursued a white Ford Explorer from Mission to Pharr with a group of illegal aliens that had recently crossed the Rio Grande River. Guerrero-Ramirez was the driver.
At trial, the jury heard from what was described as an “eye in the sky.” A Customs and Border Protection (CBP) aviation enforcement agent had maintained video surveillance of the vehicle as it weaved across the highway, onto frontage roads and through the neighborhoods of Pharr. Guerrero-Ramirez was driving erratically and recklessly at a high rate of speed for nearly 15 minutes before the vehicle came to a dead-end road. At that time, the occupants fled into the nearby brush.
Testimony also revealed how authorities were able to locate and apprehend Guerrero-Ramirez with the assistance of the CBP air and marine helicopter from the thick brush. The jury also saw footage of Guerrero-Ramirez as he threw his cellphone into a nearby irrigation canal when he emerged from the brush.
Two of the undocumented aliens also testified. They described how their group crossed the Rio Grande River with the assistance of a foot guide who led them on a long walk through thick brush and mud to a roadway. There, they awaited a vehicle to transport them further into the United States.
Guerrero-Ramirez told them to duck down and hide so they could not be seen and to run when they reached the dead-end road.
The defense attempted to convince the jury Guerrero-Ramirez was under duress and only drove the vehicle out of necessity. He claimed he was not part of the smuggling conspiracy. The jury was not convinced and found him guilty as charged.
U.S. District Judge Ricardo H. Hinojosa presided over the trial and set sentencing for July 6. At that time, Guerrero-Ramirez faces up to 10 years in prison as well as a possible $10 million fine..
Guerrero-Ramirez has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
Border Patrol and CBP Air & Marine Operations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lee Fry and Eric D. Flores prosecuted the case.
Woman admits to trafficking over $1M in crystal meth and black tar heroinRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 27-year-old Mission woman has pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to distribute more than 31 kilograms of meth, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Cristina Inez Marquez pleaded guilty to knowingly transporting and possessing over 31 kilograms of meth and five kilograms of heroin.
As part of her plea, Marquez admitted that on Dec. 29, 2021, she drove a gray Ford Explorer northbound on Highway 281 near Alice.
Law enforcement conducted a traffic stop and conducted an inspection. At that time, they discovered the fuel tank had been tampered with and removed. Upon examining the contents, authorities found 12 concealed bundles of what appeared to be crystal meth and black tar heroin. The weight of the bundles exceeded 85 pounds.
Analysis later confirmed the substances in the bundles were in fact crystal meth at 95% purity with a net weight of 31.41 kilograms and black tar heroin with a net weight of 5.95 kilograms. The drugs had an estimated street value of more than $1.3 million.
U.S. District Judge David S. Morales will impose sentencing July 20. At that time, Marquez faces up to life in prison and a possible $10 million maximum fine.
She has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Marck is prosecuting the case.
Two charged in $10M Medicare fraud/kickback schemeRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A home health agency owner and patient recruiter have been arrested on charges of conspiracy to commit, committing health care fraud and conspiracy to pay and receive health care kickbacks, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
A federal grand jury in Houston returned the five-count indictment against Okorie Oko, 63, Fresno, and Henry C. Dobbins, 57, Houston, April 26 which was unsealed today upon their arrests. They are expected to make their initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Peter Bray today at 2 p.m.
According to the indictment, Oko is the owner and Dobbins is a patient recruiter, respectively, of Elitte Healthcare and Service Inc.
The indictment alleges that from 2015 to 2022, Oko billed Medicare for home health care services that were never provided and created false medical records. Oko allegedly paid kickbacks to Dobbins, patients and marketers that Elitte employed to obtain new patient referrals. Oko also allegedly billed Medicare for home health care services provided to Elitte marketers while transporting and recruiting patients within the community.
The indictment further alleges Oko and Elitte fraudulently billed more than $10 million to Medicare.
If convicted, both face up to 10 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
The Department of Health and Human Services ‐ Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Texas Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and FBI. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn Olson is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
La Joya residents sentenced for fraud schemesRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – The former mayor of La Joya and two others have been ordered to federal prison for wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Former mayor Jose Adolfo Salinas, 83, pleaded guilty July 19, 2021, while his daughter - Frances Salinas De Leon, 54 - and Ramiro Alaniz, 40, both admitted to their guilt June 17, 2021. All are from La Joya
Today, U.S. District Judge Randy Crane sentenced Salinas to 33 months in prison, while his daughter was ordered to serve a 39-month-term of imprisonment. Alaniz received nine months. All must also serve three years of supervised release following their sentences. At the hearing, the court heard additional information concerning the financial damage the fraud schemes had caused.
In assessing the financial loss, Judge Crane considered additional relevant conduct including property Salinas had sold to the City of La Joya at an inflated rate as well as De Leon’s theft from the La Joya Housing Authority while she was acting as the interim executive director. Judge Crane noted how the case demonstrates the culture of corruption that existed in La Joya at the time of the schemes, adding that while public office is for service and self-sacrifice, Salinas used his position to benefit himself and his family financially.
“Rio Grande Valley residents rightfully expect elected leaders to remain ethical and trustworthy while serving the community,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Oliver E. Rich Jr. “This sentencing demonstrates the FBI’s firm commitment to address public corruption and hold corrupt officials accountable.”
Salinas entered his plea in relation to a public relations contract his daughter had drafted and brokered with the city on behalf of another individual. She was, in turn, to receive some of the proceeds resulting from that deal. De Leon was not a city employee, but used her relationship with Salinas to get the contract approved so she could receive a significant amount of the contract’s proceeds. Salinas used his authority to approve and city funds to pay for the contract.
Additionally, Le Leon admitted to wire fraud in connection with loans received for a children’s day care project. During 2017, the La Joya Economic Development Corporation, which her father headed, provided approximately $341,000 in loans to De Leon and other individuals to pay for the construction of the project. De Leon stole some of the funds and also received kickbacks from some of the subcontractors.
De Leon hired Alaniz as a general contractor. He also received kickbacks from the project.
All were permitted to remain on bond pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The FBI, Department of Housing and Urban Development - Office of the Inspector General (OIG) and U.S. Department of Agriculture - OIG conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarina S. DiPiazza, Roberto Lopez Jr. and James Sturgis prosecuted the case.
Honduran national admits to deadly smuggling incidentRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas - A 26-year-old Honduran man has pleaded guilty to transporting undocumented aliens resulting in a death, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Darwuin Sai Kabrera-Garsia pleaded guilty to smuggling three non-U.S. citizens resulting in the death of one.
On Nov. 9, 2021, Kabrera-Garsia acted as a brush guide to smuggle three non-U.S. citizens from Mexico into the United States. Kabrera-Garsia and the group crossed Texas Highway 83. At that time, an oncoming SUV struck an individual of the group. She died at the scene.
U.S. District Judge Diana Saldana will impose sentencing at a future date. If convicted, Kabrera-Garsia faces up to life in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Kabrera-Garsia has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Border Patrol and the Laredo Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew Isaac and Anthony G. Brown are prosecuting the case.
Tax Tiger preparer pleads guilty to tax fraudRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A local woman has admitted to aiding and assisting in preparation of at least 50 false income tax returns, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Krystle Robinson prepared income tax returns for clients under her own tax service business.
As part of her plea, Robinson admitted that between 2013-2017, she helped prepare income tax returns under the business name Tax Tigers. After January 2017, Robinson’s business name was changed to Tax Lions.
In the fraudulent tax returns, Robinson made false claims of business losses from sole proprietorships and inflated Schedule A deductions and education credits. Robinson also admitted that she assisted in preparing a false income tax return for an undercover IRS agent.
The fraudulent tax returns resulted in a total loss of $245,995. Robinson agreed to pay restitution to the IRS.
U.S. Circuit Judge Gregg Costa accepted the plea and set sentencing for May 18. At that time, Robinson faces up to three years in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. She was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.
IRS-Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles J. Escher is prosecuting the case.
South Texas woman ordered to prison for smuggling $1.5M in methRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 24-year-old La Joya woman has been sent to prison for possessing with the intent to distribute more than 19 kilograms of highly pure meth, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Karla Jessica Perez pleaded guilty Dec. 21, 2021.
Today, U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos sentenced her to a total of 70 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional testimony that Perez purchased the vehicle in which the drugs were found, drove the vehicle into Mexico and back across the border into the United States. In handing down the sentence, the court noted that Perez’s role in the planning and organizing of the offense rose above that of a minor participant.
On June 18, Perez drove a white Jeep Patriot into the primary inspection area of the Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint near Falfurrias. A thorough search of the SUV revealed hidden compartments in the exhaust system and body panels that concealed 16 large bundles of narcotics.
Laboratory analysis later confirmed the substance in the bundles was meth with a total weight of 19.87 kilograms. The drugs had an estimated street value of more than $1.5 million.
Perez was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of BP. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Marck prosecuted the case.
Local man indicted for trafficking multiple narcoticsRead the Press Release
Corpus Christi, Texas – A Corpus Christi man is facing up to 40 years in prison for his alleged role in several narcotics offenses, being a felon in possession firearms and possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Today, a federal grand jury returned a multi-count indictment against Christopher Ruiz, 38. Originally charged by criminal complaint, he is expected to appear for his arraignment before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the near future.
The charges allege that on March 23, law enforcement executed an arrest warrant on Ruiz. Within his residence, authorities allegedly found various amounts of meth, heroin and crack cocaine, as well as several firearms.
If convicted, Ruiz faces up a minimum of five and up to 40 years in federal prison as well as a possible $5 million fine.
The FBI’s Corpus Christi Safe Streets/Gang Task Force, including members of the Corpus Christi Police Department, conducted the investigation with assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Dennis E. Robinson is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Fort Bend man sentenced for possession of child pornography filesRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 64-year-old Sugar Land resident has been ordered to prison following his convictions of receiving and possessing videos and images of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
A federal jury sitting in Houston convicted Gregory Eugene Baker Nov. 10, 2021, following a three-day trial.
Today, U.S. District Judge Keith P. Ellison ordered Baker to serve 90 months in prison for the receipt and possession of child pornography convictions. The court also heard additional information today including an impact statement from a victim. Baker had 231 photos of her in his collection. She described how she is revictimized every time individuals like Baker download and view images of her abuse. Baker will serve five years on supervised release following completion of his prison term, during which time he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Baker will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.
At trial, the jury heard that authorities discovered Baker’s IP address requesting child pornography files on the Freenet file sharing system which was run on the dark web. On April 4, 2019, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Baker’s residence and seized multiple devices.
Forensic examination of 13 devices revealed three virtual machines and the discovery of 380 videos and 12,762 images of young children engaged in sexually explicit conduct. They included toddlers, bondage, bestiality and sadomasochism. Additionally, Baker had images of Christmas cards containing child pornography surrounded by ornaments, garland and holiday greetings.
A forensics expert further testified that there were artifacts involving child pornography search terms as well as other peer-to-peer file sharing programs in which the device’s user requested files with titles that were consistent with child pornography. They also testified that the devices belonged to Baker.
Baker testified in his own defense and attempted to convince the jury that although the devices were his, he did not know how the child pornography was downloaded on them. The jury did not believe his claims and found him guilty as charged.
Baker was ordered to surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility on April 29, 2022.
The Fort Bend District Attorney’s Office conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Pearland Police Department and FBI.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberly Ann Leo and Sherri Zack prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.
Former port IT director pleads guilty to transporting stolen computersRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 39-year-old man has admitted to transporting over a hundred stolen computers across state lines, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Tyler Wright Fuhrken, Corpus Christi, pleaded guilty to using $320,098 from the Port of Corpus Christi to purchase Apple computers for personal use while employed as its IT director.
The investigation revealed that from May 22, 2016, to Feb. 4, 2021, Fuhrken authorized the purchase of 162 Apple computers. He had the authority to do so as necessary for the port. However, he did not record the purchased computers in the port’s asset control system or inventory.
Authorities traced a series of suspicious PayPal deposits into Fuhrken’s bank account. They were from a computer reseller located in New York who acknowledged purchasing many Apple computers from Fuhrken. Fuhrken would invoice the reseller for the computers on PayPal and would ship the computers from Texas to the resale shop located in New York.
The reseller provided authorities with a list of the computers he purchased. They were able to identify the 162 Apple computers missing from the port.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos will impose sentence July 27. At that time, Fuhrken faces up to 10 years in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. As part of his plea agreement Fuhrken also agreed to pay restitution in the amount of $421,233.93.
He was permitted to remain on bond pending his sentencing hearing.
The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Corpus Christi Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert D. Thorpe is prosecuting the case.
Felon indicted for washateria carjacking and related chargesRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 31-year-old local man has been indicted for carjacking and illegally possessing and discharging a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Today, a federal grand jury returned the three-count indictment against Zachary Smith, Houston. Previously in state custody on related charges, he is expected to make his initial appearance before a U.S. magistrate judge on the federal indictment in the near future.
The charges allege that on Feb. 6, Smith discharged a firearm while stealing a vehicle from the parking lot of a washateria on Melbourne Drive. He was also allegedly involved in a shooting Feb. 7 on the 2000 block of Broadway Street. On that day, Smith led law enforcement in a pursuit that came to an end when he crashed into a patrol unit, according to the charges.
The indictment alleges his is a previous felon and is prohibited from possessing firearms per federal law.
If convicted, Smith faces up to life for discharging the firearm during a crime of violence, 15 years for the carjacking and a maximum of 10 years for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Texas Department of Public Safety, Houston Police Department and Harris County Sherriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Britni Cooper is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Federal agent charged with violating civil rightsRead the Press Release
McALLEN, Texas – A 28-year-old former Border Patrol (BP) employee is facing charges that he deprived the constitutional rights of a Honduran teenager, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Authorities took Gregson Martinez into custody today. He is set to make his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Anne Berton tomorrow at 2 p.m.
On July 21, 2021, BP agents apprehended a 17-year-old unaccompanied Honduran citizen near Hidalgo, according to the charges. They then allegedly transported him to the Donna Processing Center.
Martinez reportedly worked at the Donna facility as a Border Patrol Processing Coordinator.
While authorities questioned him, Martinez allegedly struck the 17-year-old male across the face.
Martinez was terminated Aug. 2, 2021.
If convicted, he faces up to a year in federal prison and a possible $100,000 maximum fine.
Department of Homeland Security - Office of Inspector General and Customs and Border Protection - Office of Professional Responsibility conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura Garcia is prosecuting the case.
A criminal information is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.“Captain” of Mexican Mafia in Laredo convictedRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 49-year-old Laredo resident has entered a guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and by an unlawful user or addict of narcotics, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Rogelio Garza admitted that on Oct. 28, 2021, he was in possession of a 9mm Taurus Model P111 G2A black pistol.
The investigation revealed Garza was selling narcotics out of a home located on the 3000 block of North Louisiana Avenue. Authorities were able to later to perform a traffic stop, at which time they discovered the firearm with one round in its chamber. They also found two grams of meth, one gram of heroin, six rounds of ammunition in a magazine and two glass pipes in the vehicle.
Garza knew he was a convicted felon who was not allowed to own a firearm. He further acknowledged he had purchased the firearm on the street from an unknown man for $200. He said he carried it for protection.
Garza has admitted to being a high-level member of the Mexican Mafia for the past 20 years, calling himself a “captain” who was asked to be the top Mexican Mafia member in Laredo. Garza additionally admitted to being addicted to various narcotics.
Law enforcement learned that Garza has six prior felony convictions, including four convictions for narcotics distribution. As such, he is prohibited per federal law of possessing a firearm or ammunition.
Garza has been and will remain in custody pending his sentencing at a later date before U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña. At that time, Garza faces at least 15 years and up to life in prison and a maximum $250,000 fine.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul A. Harrison is prosecuting the case.
Suburban man gets 35 years for sexually exploiting minors through SkoutRead the Press Release
HOUSTON – A 24-year-old local man has been ordered to prison for sexual exploitation and coercion and enticement of minors, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Benjamen Charles Slaughter pleaded guilty Aug. 4, 2021 to sexual exploitation of children, receipt and possession of child pornography.
Today, U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Brown sentenced Butler to 420 months in federal prison. Following the lengthy sentence, Slaughter will be on supervised release for the rest of his life, during which time he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. He was also ordered to pay $15,300 in special assessments and to register as a sex offender.
Slaughter met the then 15-year-old female victim through a the social media website Skout, during which time he convinced her to become his “submissive.” Slaughter was actively involved in the bondage, discipline, dominance and submission world and had frequented the website Collarspace, a site for similarly-minded individuals.
Slaughter demanded one victim to engage in sex with strangers and wanted her to do so without using protection.
He had also started receiving child pornography prior to becoming an adult and created a Dropbox account to store some of his collection. Authorities conducted numerous search warrants for various social media and online storage accounts as well as Slaughter’s residence. Those revealed numerous images of child pornography, some of which involved babies and toddlers in provocative situations with animals and adult male genitalia.
Slaughter has been in custody since being determined a danger to the community and a flight risk, where he will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sherri L. Zack prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources link on that page.
Mexican nationals sentenced for deadly human smugglingRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – Two Mexican men have been ordered to prison following their convictions of conspiracy to transport undocumented aliens which resulted in multiple deaths, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Fabian Hernandez, 29, Emmanuel Ferral-Tonche, 20, both of Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico, pleaded guilty Dec. 30, 2021.
Today, U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo imposed a 60-month term of imprisonment for both men. They are expected to face removal proceedings following their sentences.
On June 9, 2021, Hernandez and Ferral-Tonche marched a group of approximately two dozen individuals through the hot south Texas brush. Some were unable to keep going. At no time did Hernandez or Ferral-Tonche offer water or attempt to look for anyone who had fallen behind or gotten lost.
Authorities responded to multiple 911 emergency calls coming from the Hachar Ranch property in Webb County. Law enforcement discovered 24 individuals illegally present in the United States who had become lost at that location. They identified Hernandez and Ferral-Tonche as the smugglers.
Law enforcement also found the remains of three deceased people. Authorities determined Hernandez and Ferral-Tonche had guided at least two of them before they succumbed to dehydration and hyperthermia while traveling on foot.
At the hearing today, the court heard additional evidence that neither man attempted to help look for or offer water to the aliens they smuggled despite the great heat.
Homeland Security Investigations and Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation with assistance from the Laredo Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Francisco J. Rodriguez prosecuted the case.