Eladio Arguelles Pleads Guilty to Possessing with Intent to Distrib…

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – Eladio Arguelles, 26, of El Paso, Texas, took a deal today, pleading guilty to a federal charge of possessing with intent to distribute a massive quantity of cocaine. The bust, a joint effort between the Savanna Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration, brings a potentially lengthy prison sentence for the Texan.

Arguelles admitted to knowingly and intentionally possessing five (5) kilograms or more of a mixture containing cocaine on or around April 5, 2014, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma. The initial indictment came down in June 2014, but the case dragged on for years before today’s guilty plea before Magistrate Judge Steven P. Shreder.

Federal prosecutors, led by Assistant United States Attorney Kyle Waters, built their case on evidence suggesting Arguelles wasn’t just holding the drugs for himself. The charge – a violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B) – specifically targets large-scale drug distribution operations. Five kilos isn’t a small amount; it screams professional operation.

The potential penalty is severe. Arguelles is looking at a minimum of five years behind bars and a maximum of forty years. On top of that, a hefty fine of up to $5,000,000.00 could be levied. This isn’t some slap-on-the-wrist misdemeanor; this is a serious federal felony that will alter Arguelles’ life dramatically.

Judge Shreder ordered a presentence investigation report to be completed before sentencing is scheduled. This report will delve into Arguelles’ background, criminal history (if any), and other factors relevant to determining an appropriate punishment. Until then, Arguelles will remain in the custody of the United States Marshal Service – a grim reminder that his freedom is over, at least for the foreseeable future.

The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on the sentencing when it is announced. This conviction sends a clear message: moving significant quantities of narcotics through Oklahoma, or anywhere in this country, carries a substantial risk, and the feds are watching.

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