Eugenio Perez Jr., Meth Trafficking, Texas 2021

A 49-year-old Mission resident has been convicted of a serious crime. Eugenio Perez Jr. was found guilty of conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of meth.

The conviction was announced by Acting U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery. The jury deliberated for approximately 40 minutes before convicting Perez following a two-day trial that included testimony from three witnesses.

The testimony revealed that authorities discovered 1.6 kilograms of meth while investigating a drag racing incident that resulted in a two-car collision. The drag racing incident occurred on an unspecified date in McAllen, Texas.

At trial, the jury heard from a local police officer who explained how Perez crashed into an SUV pulling out of a parking lot. The officer approached Perez after observing him pull a bag from his truck’s cab and place it into the bed of the truck. He instructed Perez not to take anything from the vehicle.

Perez’s daughter arrived on the scene. At that time, she took the bag from the bed of the truck and placed it in her car, according to testimony. The officer further testified that he stopped her from leaving the area and asked her to show him what was inside the bag. The daughter opened the bag which was found to contain approximately 1.6 kilograms of meth.

The defense attempted to convince the jury that law enforcement had rushed to judgment and did not perform an adequate and thorough enough investigation to convict Perez. The jury disagreed and found him guilty as charged.

U.S. District Judge Randy Crane presided over the trial and set sentencing for July 27, 2021. At that time, Perez faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison as well as a possible $10 million fine. Previously released on bond, Perez was taken into custody following the conviction and will remain pending the sentencing hearing.

The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of Palmview Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Mitchell and M. Alexis Garcia prosecuted the case. The investigation highlights the ongoing efforts to combat methamphetamine trafficking in the region.

The conviction serves as a reminder of the severe consequences of engaging in such activities. The community can rest assured that law enforcement agencies will continue to work tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice.

The case is a testament to the dedication and hard work of law enforcement officials who put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe.

The people of McAllen, Texas, can feel safer knowing that justice has been served in this case.

The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the assistance of Palmview Police Department.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Mitchell and M. Alexis Garcia.

Defendant: Eugenio Perez Jr.

Criminal Charges: Conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of meth.

City and State: McAllen, Texas.

Exact Date: July 27, 2021 (sentencing date).

Sentence or Outcome: Perez faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison as well as a possible $10 million fine.

Dollar Amounts: $10 million fine.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdtx/pr/jury-convicts-valley-resident-meth-charges