NC Man Sentenced for 1,064 lbs. Marijuana Trafficking in Texas Stop

BEAUMONT, Texas – A 46-year-old Clinton, NC man has been sentenced to federal prison for his involvement in a major drug trafficking operation that was uncovered during a routine traffic stop in Jasper County.

Enar David Zuniga, 46, pleaded guilty on August 29, 2012, to possession with intent to distribute more than 100 kilograms of marijuana. Today, U.S. District Judge Ron Clark sentenced Zuniga to 60 months in federal prison for his crime.

The events leading to Zuniga’s sentencing began on June 18, 2012, when Texas Highway Patrol troopers pulled him over in Jasper County for a seatbelt violation. According to court documents, Zuniga appeared nervous and his responses to the officer’s questions were suspicious. When he opened the back of his Isuzu truck and allowed the trooper to search, the officer discovered a hidden compartment containing 1,064 pounds of marijuana.

Zuniga was indicted on June 21, 2012, and charged with federal drug trafficking crimes. The investigation into this case was conducted by the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Drug Enforcement Administration, and it was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Baylor Wortham.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against drug trafficking across state lines. It also underscores the importance of vigilant law enforcement efforts that lead to significant seizures and arrests.

U.S. Attorney John M. Bales announced the sentence, emphasizing the Department of Justice’s commitment to dismantling drug trafficking organizations and holding those responsible for such crimes accountable.

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