Repeat drug trafficker is heading back to prison another 15 years following ICE Rio Grande Valley, federal partner investigation

MCALLEN, Texas — A South Texas man and convicted felon was sentenced to 15 years in prison for drug trafficking while on federal supervision, following an investigation conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, in coordination with the ATF and Texas Department of Public Safety. The Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces investigation was conducted with assistance from the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office and the Mission and Alton police departments.

Salvador Noyola, 56, from Mission, Texas, was sentenced Feb. 20 by Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane to serve 188 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. On supervised release when he committed the crime, the court included 18 months as part of the sentence for violating that term. In handing down the sentence, Judge Crane warned Noyola, stating “You’ve got to get out of this business… I hope that you will find another way to make money.” Noyola pleaded guilty May 3, 2024.

‘Today's sentencing of a repeat drug trafficker to 15 years underscores the serious consequences of continuous involvement in these illegal activities. This significant penalty highlights our dedication to enforcing drug laws and maintaining public safety,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Rio Grande Valley Deputy Special Agent in Charge, Mark Lippa. “We hope this sentence acts as a powerful deterrent for others and reinforces the importance of adhering to the law. This outcome is a testament to the collaborative efforts of multiple law enforcement agencies working together to uphold justice and strive for a drug-free society."

According to court documents, in December 2023, authorities arrested Noyola following a search at his residence. At the time of the search, law enforcement seized over a kilogram of powdered cocaine.

Noyola remains in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Roberto Lopez Jr., Lance Watt and Brittany Jensen from the Southern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

Source: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE.gov)