ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico – An Albuquerque man has been charged with federal drug trafficking and firearms offenses following an FBI investigation into an alleged plan to arm an inmate for an escape from custody.
Crisantos ‘Ventex’ Garcia, 34, a suspected West Side Locos gang member and convicted felon, was charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
According to court documents, on February 13, 2025, law enforcement agents executed search warrants at three residences in northwest Albuquerque associated with Garcia. During the searches, agents recovered more than a dozen firearms, including a Draco-style pistol and multiple rifles and pistols, thousands of rounds of ammunition, ballistic vests, high-value vehicles, including a Dodge ‘Hellcat,’ and approximately 151 grams of fentanyl pills.
Laboratory testing later identified Garcia’s DNA on two of the seized firearms, and a search of his cell phone revealed photographs of firearms and messages discussing rifles, ammunition, and pill sales.
Investigators further allege that Garcia stockpiled firearms, ammunition, cash, and a stolen vehicle to support an escape plan devised by Dakota Briscoe, an Albuquerque man sentenced to 25 years in federal prison for a violent crime spree linked to a 2020 double murder and multiple armed carjackings.
Garcia is charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. If convicted of the current charge, Garcia faces not less than 10 and up to 40 years in prison.
Garcia is currently in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled.
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Key Facts
- State: New Mexico
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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