Jose Francisco Arredondo, Meth Possession with Intent to Distribute, Texas 2023

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Cocaine Pepe Faces Life Behind Bars

A 32-year-old Alice resident, known to locals as ‘Cocaine Pepe,’ has entered a guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute 112 grams of meth, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.

Jose Francisco Arredondo’s guilty plea comes after he was found in possession of a significant amount of narcotics and a firearm during a traffic stop. On April 9, authorities responded to a potential disturbance at a local hotel, where they observed a vehicle with its lights on and engine running.

Arredondo, a convicted felon, was driving the vehicle. As law enforcement approached, they immediately noticed a firearm in the center console. They conducted a thorough search of the vehicle, uncovering $10,000, four bags of narcotics, and a digital scale.

Among the narcotics, authorities found 112 grams of meth, 56 grams of cocaine, and 13 grams of marijuana. A defaced firearm was also discovered. The presence of a firearm and large quantity of narcotics raised suspicions, leading to a more thorough investigation.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Jim Wells County Sheriff’s Office, and the Alice Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Marin is prosecuting the case.

U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos accepted the plea and set sentencing for November 17. At that time, Arredondo faces up to life in prison and a possible $10 million maximum fine. He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.

The discovery of such a large quantity of narcotics and a firearm in the possession of a convicted felon is a serious concern for law enforcement. The guilty plea and pending sentencing serve as a reminder of the consequences of such actions.