Mexican National Charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine and Methamphetamine in Lafayette
On October 13, 2026, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana charged Manuel De Jesus Arce Cruz, 42, of Mexico, by criminal complaint with Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine and Methamphetamine.
According to court documents, on October 8, 2026, investigators began surveillance at Arce Cruz’s Lafayette-area residence in connection with a drug trafficking investigation. Investigators saw Arce Cruz, an illegal alien, depart his residence by car with a work bag. After law enforcement stopped Arce Cruz for a traffic violation, the officers conducted a lawful search of the vehicle and recovered approximately 1.5 kilograms of cocaine and half a kilogram of methamphetamine. A search warrant executed at Arce Cruz’s residence allegedly led to the recovery of an additional half of a kilogram of cocaine along with scales, baggies, cash, and other items typically associated with drug distribution.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Louisiana State Police. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Sarver, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Joanne Henry-Mills.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 6:26-mj-00249.
