Eduardo Puente, Methamphetamine and Heroin Trafficking, Texas 2022

San Antonio, Texas – Eduardo Puente, a 46-year-old Mexican national, has been sentenced to 19 years in federal prison for his role in a massive methamphetamine and heroin trafficking operation in Texas.

Puente was convicted of one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, one count of possession with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

According to court documents, Puente was identified as the source of supply for two controlled narcotics purchases of methamphetamine in January 2022. On February 17, 2022, Puente was observed carrying a white shoe box en route to a third controlled purchase, which led to a traffic stop by Texas Department of Public Safety Troopers and Criminal Investigation Division agents.

Puente attempted to flee on foot, but was eventually arrested and found to be in possession of eight small bags of suspected methamphetamine, a bag of a black tar substance suspected to be heroin, and $2,090 in cash. A search of Puente’s vehicle also revealed a .357 revolver.

Further investigation led to the seizure of 2.281 kg of marijuana, 3.016 kg of heroin, and 44.021 kg of methamphetamine from Puente’s residence, as well as a .223 caliber rifle loaded with armor piercing rounds and approximately $6,400 in cash.

The case was investigated by the FBI and the Texas Department of Public Safety, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Karina O’Daniel prosecuting the case.

“This sentencing sends a clear message that the FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to work diligently to hold criminals who are bringing dangerous drugs into our communities accountable for their actions,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Marcus Joachim for the FBI San Antonio Division.

Puente’s sentence includes 168 months in prison for the methamphetamine and heroin charges, plus 60 months for the firearm charge, for a total of 228 months, or 19 years.

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