Grimy Times has learned that Hector Garcia, a 35-year-old Cicero, Illinois man, has pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine in Hammond, Indiana. Garcia, who was arrested in connection with an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, faces sentencing on September 18, 2013. Assistant United States Attorney David Nozick is prosecuting the case.
The charge stems from a large-scale cocaine trafficking operation that was dismantled by DEA agents. Garcia’s conviction is the latest in a string of guilty pleas in the case, which has resulted in the conviction of several other defendants. The investigation was led by the DEA’s Hammond office.
Garcia’s guilty plea marks the second high-profile conviction in Hammond in recent weeks. In December, a Gary man was sentenced to three years in prison for his role in a prescription medication abuse ring.
The case against Garcia is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Nozick, who has a reputation for being tough on narcotics traffickers. Nozick has said that he plans to seek a lengthy prison sentence for Garcia.
When asked about the significance of Garcia’s guilty plea, Nozick said, ‘This case is a reminder that the DEA and its law enforcement partners are committed to dismantling large-scale narcotics trafficking organizations that bring harm to our communities.’
In a related development, the DEA is warning the public about the dangers of cocaine and other narcotics. The agency says that cocaine use can lead to a range of health problems, including heart attacks, strokes, and respiratory failure.
Garcia’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for September 18, 2013. He faces up to 40 years in prison if convicted.
Key Facts
- State: Indiana
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
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