McALLEN, Texas – Maria Patricia Medina, 40, has been brought to justice for her role in a scheme to conceal cash donations from a known drug trafficker.
Medina, who served as the chief of staff for former Hidalgo County Sheriff Lupe Trevino, pleaded guilty to one count of misprison of a felony.
The investigation revealed that during 2011 and 2012, the former sheriff received cash contributions from Tomas ‘El Gallo’ Gonzalez, a man with alleged ties to the drug trade.
Medina, as the chief of staff and campaign treasurer, admitted to assisting Trevino in concealing the donations by falsifying election records.
Chief U.S. District Judge Ricardo H. Hinojosa accepted the plea today and has set sentencing for July 3, 2014. At that time, Medina faces up to three years in federal prison and a potential fine of $250,000.
The investigation leading to the charges was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Texas Department of Public Safety, Rangers Division. Assistant United States Attorneys James Sturgis and Anibal Alaniz prosecuted the case.
The guilty plea is a significant blow to the former Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office, which has faced numerous allegations of corruption in recent years.
Medina’s plea deal is a reminder that those in positions of power will be held accountable for their actions, and that the public’s trust must be earned and maintained.
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Key Facts
- State: Texas
- Category: Public Corruption
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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