Gulfport, Miss. – Juan Luis Cantu a/k/a ‘Flaco,’ 24, of La Joya, Texas, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and 100 kilograms or more of marijuana.
The investigation of a drug conspiracy ring led DEA agents to learn through cooperating sources that Cantu was a source of supply of cocaine and marijuana for individuals on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Specifically, during the DEA investigation, one source who knew Cantu only as ‘Flaco’ stated that he negotiated with Cantu for the delivery of over 100 kilograms of marijuana.
The source was also able to identify Cantu in a photo lineup provided by DEA agents. Two of Cantu’s co-defendants stated that Cantu was instrumental in introducing the two of them to each other for the purposes of assisting in the distribution of at least 500 grams or more of cocaine.
Cantu was apprehended on October 23, 2017, in McAllen, Texas and brought to Mississippi for prosecution. He will be sentenced on June 13, 2018, by Judge Sul Ozerden, and he faces a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison and a $5 million fine.
The case was investigated by the DEA and the FBI Safe Streets Task Force. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathlyn R. Van Buskirk.
The investigation and subsequent guilty plea highlight the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat the flow of narcotics into Mississippi. The guilty plea also demonstrates the importance of cooperation between law enforcement agencies in bringing those responsible to justice.
In light of the guilty plea, Cantu is currently awaiting sentencing and faces a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison and a $5 million fine.
Key Facts
- State: Mississippi
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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