Hill City Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine Conspiracy

A 49-year-old Hill City man has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance in South Dakota. Francisco Escobar-Tinjero, 49, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on May 30, 2013, and admitted to his role in the crime.

According to court documents, Escobar-Tinjero and others conspired to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in South Dakota from approximately June 2010 until April 4, 2012. The maximum penalty for conviction is not less than 5 or more than 40 years’ imprisonment and/or a $5,000,000 fine.

The investigation into the conspiracy was conducted by a multi-agency task force including Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, and the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Ted L. McBride is prosecuting the case. A presentence investigation has been ordered, and a sentencing date has been set for September 27, 2013. Escobar-Tinjero was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending sentencing.

The guilty plea is a significant development in the ongoing effort to combat the trafficking of methamphetamine in South Dakota. The state has been grappling with the issue of methamphetamine use and distribution for several years.

Law enforcement officials credit the multi-agency task force with helping to disrupt the conspiracy and bring the perpetrators to justice. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of collaboration and dedication in the fight against organized crime.

Escobar-Tinjero’s sentencing is scheduled to take place on September 27, 2013. The outcome of the case will be closely watched by law enforcement officials and the public alike.

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