Meth Kingpin Quiroz-Salto Gets 20 Years

HOUSTON, TX – Eustorgio Quiroz-Salto, a 41-year-old Mexican national, is facing two decades behind bars after being sentenced for his central role in a massive methamphetamine distribution conspiracy and for illegally stockpiling weapons and ammunition. The sentence, handed down by U.S. District Judge Alfred H. Bennett, reflects the sheer scale of the operation and Quiroz-Salto’s repeated disregard for the law.

The bust went down December 12, 2023, in the parking lot of a church in Crosby, Texas. Quiroz-Salto, along with co-defendant Manuel Varjas Corona, 51, were caught red-handed attempting to deliver over 20 kilograms of “ice” – methamphetamine – to an undercover operative. A subsequent raid of Quiroz-Salto’s residence unearthed a horrifying cache: another 93.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, twelve firearms, a silencer, 351 rounds of live ammunition, and a collection of firearm parts. This wasn’t some small-time operation; this was a serious attempt to flood the streets with poison.

U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei didn’t mince words. “Public safety begins with taking the most dangerous recidivists off the street,” he stated. Ganjei highlighted Quiroz-Salto’s history, noting the defendant had illegally re-entered the country three times after previous deportations in 2007 and 2008, and had a prior conviction for cocaine trafficking in Florida dating back to 2011. “When a defendant, like the one here, illegally enters our country three times, engages in drug trafficking despite having prior drug convictions, and illegally possesses firearms, he better believe we’re going to come looking for him.”

DEA Special Agent in Charge Jonathan C. Pullen emphasized the brazen nature of the crime. “Not only was Quiroz-Salto in the country illegally, but… they uncovered a substantial amount of methamphetamine destined for our communities,” Pullen said. “He was caught in the act, selling deadly drugs near a place of worship, and now he’ll spend two decades behind bars paying the price for his reckless actions that threatened to destroy lives.” The location – a church parking lot – is a particularly disturbing detail, demonstrating a complete lack of respect for community values.

Quiroz-Salto pleaded guilty on July 11, 2024, and was sentenced to 240 months – 20 years – in federal prison. Judge Bennett also ordered the forfeiture of all seized weapons and ammunition. Following his imprisonment, Quiroz-Salto will face removal proceedings. His accomplice, Manuel Varjas Corona, has also pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing, where he faces a potential life sentence. The DEA investigation was supported by a multi-agency task force including the ATF, ICE-HSI, FBI, Harris County Sheriff’s Office, and Houston Police Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Shelley J. Sullivan prosecuted the case, securing a conviction that sends a clear message: trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine and illegally possessing firearms will be met with the full force of federal law. This case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against drug trafficking and the persistent threat posed by repeat offenders who exploit our borders and endanger our communities.