Laredo Residents Arrested For Distributing Cocaine And Marijuana In A School Zone
LAREDO, Texas - Romeo Serna Sr., 50, and Romeo Serna Jr., 26, both residents of Laredo, have been arrested for attempted distribution of cocaine base and for possession with intent to distribute marijuana in a school zone, United States Attorney Kenneth Magidson announced today along with Javier F. Peña, Special Agent in charge of the Drug Enforcement (DEA).
The Sernas were arrested on March 7, 2013. The criminal complaint was filed this morning, at which time the Sernas made their initial appearances before United States Magistrate Judge Diana Song Quiroga. Both were remanded to custody pending a detention hearing, set for Friday, March 15, 2013, at 10:00 a.m.
“Selling drugs in or near a school is not only unlawful but could be potentially dangerous to our children as well as our communities,” said Peña. “DEA and its colleagues will continue to work hard to keep our children and communities safe.”
The criminal complaint alleges that on March 7, 2013, DEA agents set up surveillance on the Serna residence on South Bartlett Avenue in Laredo. At approximately noon, the undercover agent arrived at the location to purchase nine ounces of cocaine (crack cocaine), at which time Serna Sr. allegedly showed the undercover agent the drugs he was planning to sell.
Shortly thereafter, DEA agents arrested the Sernas and executed a search warrant at the residence. During the search, the complaint indicates agents also discovered marijuana located on the kitchen counter, kitchen attic and in the living room. The Serna residence is located within 1,000 feet of a public middle school.
The case is being investigated by DEA with assistance from the Laredo Independent School District Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sonah Lee is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is an accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until convicted through due process of law.
