TYLER, Texas – A ruthless crime syndicate in East Texas has been brought to its knees as six alleged members have been apprehended after a major joint investigation. The Department of Justice’s Office of Public Affairs announced the arrest of Omar Bonifacio Bonilla, alias ‘Pelon,’ and five others following a crackdown on illegal gambling, money laundering, and drug trafficking operations.
The operation was the culmination of months-long efforts by a coalition that included the FBI, Smith County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. DEA, and the Texas Racing Commission. On July 15, 2014, federal arrest warrants and search warrants were executed across Tyler and Gladewater, resulting in the seizure of over $30,000 cash, methamphetamine, and firearms.
Bonifacio Bonilla, age 32 from Tyler, was one of the six suspects nabbed. He is charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, prohibition of illegal gambling businesses, and conspiracy to money launder. The other defendants are Renault Lansing Kay, alias ‘Nault Pete’ and ‘Chocolate,’ at 47; Jessica Maria Bonilla, 31; Joel Orlando Bonilla-Loya, 36; Guillermo Rivera-Bonilla, 58; and Sheena Shavette Perry, 31, all from Tyler.
Convictions for these charges could see the defendants facing life sentences in federal prison. The arrest was a collaborative effort also involving Homeland Security-Deportation and Removal Operations, Tyler Police Department, and the Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frank Coan and Richard Moore are handling the prosecution.
Despite the charges, all suspects maintain their innocence until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
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Key Facts
- State: Texas
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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