Emiliano Cabriales, Using Firearm to Further Drug Trafficking, Texas 2024

Drug Trafficking Defendant Admits to Using Firearm for Protection

McALLEN, Texas – In a shocking turn of events, 18-year-old Emiliano Cabriales, an Alamo resident, has pleaded guilty to utilizing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking activity.

According to U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle in which Cabriales was a passenger on May 29. During a subsequent search, law enforcement discovered a firearm concealed beneath the seat where Cabriales had been sitting.

Further investigation revealed approximately 14 grams of cocaine, packaged in individual baggies, hidden inside Cabriales’ pants. He admitted to possessing the cocaine and also admitted to possessing the firearm in case he had to protect himself and the drugs.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Alamo Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cahal P. McColgan is prosecuting the case as part of the joint federal, state and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program.

U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton will impose sentencing on March 11, 2025. At that time, Cabriales faces up to life in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. As of now, Cabriales has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.

This case is part of the updated PSN approach, which is guided by four key principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results of our efforts.

The fundamental goal is to reduce violent crime, not simply to increase the number of arrests or prosecutions. By working together, law enforcement agencies and community-based organizations can make a significant impact in reducing crime and keeping our communities safe.

In related news, the PSN approach has been reinvigorated as part of the Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime, announced by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland in May 2021.

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