Fabian Rodriguez, Cocaine and Methamphetamine Trafficking, Texas 2013

McALLEN, Texas - In a shocking turn of events, a former Hidalgo County Sheriff's deputy has been convicted of conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine and more than 500 grams of methamphetamine.

Fabian Rodriguez, 28, of Edinburg, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine and more than 500 grams of methamphetamine. The charges stem from Rodriguez's involvement in the now-defunct Panama Unit, a drug task force operated by the Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office.

According to the investigation, Rodriguez utilized his position as a law enforcement officer to traffic narcotics. He admitted to using his law enforcement authority to steal narcotics, which he and others sold to local drug dealers.

The investigation leading to the charges was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, FBI, Homeland Security Investigations - Office of Professional Responsibility, and the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Assistant United States Attorneys James Sturgis and Anibal Alaniz are prosecuting the case.

Rodriguez faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison, along with a potential fine of up to $10 million.

Sentencing has been set for September 10, 2013.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdtx/pr/another-plea-panama-unit-case-0