David Piper, Jr., Methamphetamine Distribution, Texas 2017

FORT WORTH – In a shocking turn of events, a federal jury has convicted two Fort Worth men on felony drug offenses, announced U.S. Attorney John Parker of the Northern District of Texas.

David Piper, Jr., 52, and Carlos Cortinas, 39, were each convicted late yesterday on one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The drug trafficking conspiracy count carries a maximum statutory penalty of life in federal prison and a $10 million fine.

Sentencing is scheduled for July 17, 2017. Co-conspirator Chadwick Hernandez, 32, pleaded guilty in February 2017 to the same offense and is scheduled to be sentenced June 26, 2017.

The government presented evidence at trial that beginning in March 2015 until January 20, 2016 Piper and Cortinas possessed with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Evidence elicited at trial showed that methamphetamine distributors from Arlington, including Cortinas, transported multiple pounds of methamphetamine to Piper for re-distribution of methamphetamine in Bolivar, Missouri.

An extensive investigation led by the DEA Fort Worth office, with the assistance of DEA’s Springfield and Tulsa offices, Arlington Police Department, Fort Worth Police Department, North Richland Hills Police Department, Oklahoma DPS, and Polk County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office, was instrumental in bringing these individuals to justice. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aisha Saleem and Shawn Smith prosecuted the case.

The convictions are a significant blow to the methamphetamine trade in the region, and a testament to the dedication and hard work of law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.

The convictions are also a stark reminder of the devastating impact that methamphetamine has on individuals, families, and communities. The Grimy Times urges our readers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

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