Texas Cartel Kingpin Riggins Sentenced to 9 Years for Cocaine Conspiracy

SHREVEPORT, La. – In a major blow to the Texas drug trade, four defendants involved in a massive cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana conspiracy have been sentenced to lengthy prison terms. United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced the convictions, which mark a significant victory for law enforcement in the fight against organized crime.

The ringleader of the operation, Kendrick D. Riggins, 46, of El Campo, Texas, was sentenced to 108 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release. Riggins pleaded guilty on December 12, 2023, to one count of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.

Riggins was caught with his accomplice, Shaheed H. Davis, 35, of Rosenburg, Texas, after a traffic stop on I-20 by Louisiana State Police on January 12, 2022. During the stop, troopers detected a strong odor of marijuana and cologne emanating from the vehicle, and subsequently found a large stash of cocaine and methamphetamine in a rental car driven by Ricky L. Lawson, 64, of Ganado, Texas.

Lawson was also sentenced to 105 months in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for his role in the conspiracy. Myrna B. Grays, 70, of El Campo, Texas, the owner of the rental car and an accomplice of Riggins, was sentenced to 60 months in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for her involvement in the cocaine conspiracy.

According to court documents, the four defendants were involved in a complex scheme to distribute cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana across state lines. The investigation, led by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Louisiana State Police, uncovered a vast network of traffickers and revealed the shocking extent of the operation.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mike Shannon and Retired Assistant United States Attorney Mary Mudrick. The convictions serve as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of organized crime and the critical role that law enforcement plays in keeping our communities safe.

The sentences handed down in this case are a testament to the dedication and hard work of the law enforcement agencies involved, and a warning to those who would seek to profit from the suffering of others. As the fight against organized crime continues, we will remain vigilant and committed to bringing those responsible to justice.