Jose Juan Rosales-Vasquez, Cocaine Importation, Texas 2024

LAREDO, Texas – In a shocking case of narcotics smuggling, a 48-year-old Mexican Citizen has been accused of attempting to conceal 5.24 kilograms of cocaine in shopping bags.

The indictment, which was handed down by a federal grand jury, charges Jose Juan Rosales-Vasquez with conspiracy to import 5.24 kilograms of cocaine and three counts of possession with intent to distribute.

According to the charges, on October 1, Rosales-Vasquez allegedly attempted to enter the United States from Mexico while driving a Chevrolet Beat sedan. At that time, he claimed to be traveling to Dallas to visit relatives and presented a valid border crossing card.

However, during an X-ray inspection of his vehicle, law enforcement allegedly discovered anomalies in shopping bags located in the trunk and under the rear passenger seat. Further inspection revealed concealed bundles which tested positive for 5.24 kilograms of cocaine, according to the charges.

If convicted, Rosales-Vasquez faces up to life in prison and a possible $10 million fine.

The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul A. Harrison is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. Defendant Jose Juan Rosales-Vasquez is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdtx/pr/man-indicted-attempting-hide-kilos-cocaine-shopping-bags-0