Ocvatius Qualo, Cocaine Trafficking, New Mexico 2015

Man from Zuni Pueblo Pleads Guilty to Cocaine Trafficking Charge

A 46-year-old man from Zuni Pueblo, New Mexico, has pleaded guilty to a federal cocaine trafficking charge. Ocvatius Qualo, 46, of Zuni Pueblo, N.M., pleaded guilty this morning in federal court in Albuquerque, N.M., to a charge of possession of cocaine with intent to distribute.

Qualo was arrested on May 29, 2015 on tribal charges after a BIA officer found that Qualo was in possession of cocaine during a routine traffic stop on State Highway 53 in Zuni Pueblo in McKinley County, N.M. The officer discovered eight baggies, each containing a small amount of cocaine.

Qualo was indicted on June 24, 2015, and charged with possession of cocaine with intent to distribute. During today’s change of plea hearing, Qualo pled guilty to the indictment.

At sentencing, Qualo faces a statutory maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. His sentencing hearing has yet to be scheduled.

The case was investigated by the Northern Agency of the BIA’s Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elaine Y. Ramirez is prosecuting the case.

Ocvatius Qualo’s guilty plea is a significant blow to the community, highlighting the ongoing struggles with drug trafficking in the region. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of law enforcement’s efforts to combat these crimes.

The Grimy Times will continue to provide updates on this case as more information becomes available.

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