Smuggler With 14 Kilos Of Cocaine At Border Checkpoint Convicted
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas - A 44-year-old Brownsville man entered a guilty plea in Corpus Christi federal court to possession with the intent to distribute 14 kilograms of cocaine, announced the Special Agent-in-Charge Joseph M. Arabit of the Houston Division of the DEA, and U.S. Attorney Kenneth Magidson.
Authorities arrested Luis Alberto Cisneros December 9, 2016 at the border patrol checkpoint near Sarita. On that date, he approached the primary inspection lane where a canine alerted to the presence of narcotics. He and his vehicle were sent to secondary inspection, at which time agents noticed inconsistencies with the rear differential, which was cold and had visible tool marks. Upon further inspection, they located a black bundle. A total of 14 bundles were ultimately found concealed inside the rear axle containing a total of approximately 14 kilograms of cocaine.
At today’s hearing, Cisneros admitted he knew drugs were hidden in the vehicle and that he was going to be paid for delivering them to the Houston area.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos accepted the plea and has set sentencing for June 8, 2017. At that time, Cisneros faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison as well as a possible $10 million fine.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of BP. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert D. Thorpe Jr. is prosecuting the case.
