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Laredo Man Convicted on Cocaine Charges
A 35-year-old Laredo man has been convicted of conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
A federal jury deliberated for approximately four hours before convicting Baldemar Guadiana following a two-day trial, which included four witnesses. The investigation, led by Homeland Security Investigations with the assistance of the Laredo Police Department, resulted in the discovery of approximately 3.68 kilograms of cocaine.
According to court documents, on Jan. 31, 2018, an undercover officer received eight bundles of narcotics at a local grocery store parking lot. Later that day, Guadiana contacted the officer and made arrangements to meet and take possession of the cocaine. Once at the pre-arranged location, Guadiana parked behind the officer. He then took the drugs and attempted to leave. Law enforcement soon stopped him and took him into custody. Authorities ultimately discovered a total of nearly four kilograms of cocaine in the eight bundles.
The defense attempted to convince the jury that Guadiana had no knowledge that the bundles in his truck contained narcotics. They also contended that law enforcement did not perform an adequate and thorough enough investigation to convict him. However, the jury disagreed and found him guilty as charged.
U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo presided over the trial and set sentencing for Oct. 25, at which time Guadiana faces up to 40 years of imprisonment and a possible $5 million maximum fine. Not a U.S. citizen, he could lose his status as a legal permanent resident.
Previously released on bond, Guadiana was taken into custody following the trial today, where he will remain pending his sentencing. Assistant U.S. Attorneys José Angel Moreno and Yoona Lim are prosecuting the case.
Key Facts
- State: Texas
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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