DEL RIO, Texas – In a shocking turn of events, a federal jury in Del Rio has convicted a Mexican national of multiple counts of cocaine trafficking into the U.S. from Mexico.
Eli Alejandro Hernandez Ledezma, 25, of Piedras Negras, was found guilty of one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, one count of conspiracy to import cocaine, and one count of importation of cocaine.
The charges carry a penalty of 10 years to life in federal prison and up to a $10 million fine. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Hernandez Ledezma was referred to secondary inspection at the Eagle Pass Port of Entry on March 16, 2025. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers discovered approximately eight kgs of cocaine in an aftermarket compartment in his vehicle.
Testimony during the trial revealed Hernandez Ledezma was in contact with an unindicted coconspirator who offered him ‘fast money’ if he had a valid visa. Additionally, testimony and evidence in the trial noted Hernandez Ledezma shared his GPS location with an unindicted coconspirator before he approached the Eagle Pass POE.
The case was investigated by ICE Homeland Security Investigations and CBP, and is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
The prosecution team consisted of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Warsame Galaydh, Nallely Duarte and William Golden.
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Key Facts
- State: Texas
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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