ICE Eagle Pass, federal partner investigation results in the sentencing of a Del Rio man to 24 years for drug trafficking

DEL RIO, Texas — A southwestern man was sentenced April 22 in federal court to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine into the United States following a joint investigation conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

Leonardo Estrada, 41, will serve the next 288 months in prison. He pleaded guilty May 22, 2023.

"Today’s sentencing highlights the serious consequences for those who traffic in methamphetamine, a drug that wreaks havoc on individuals and communities alike. HSI remains steadfast in its mission to disrupt drug trafficking networks and prevent the spread of methamphetamine across the country,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations San Antonio Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee.

According to court documents, Estrada approached a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint on Highway 277 near Eagle Pass, Feb. 15, 2023. During inspection, a K-9 alerted agents to the driver’s side of Estrada’s vehicle near the pedals. A further search revealed two plastic bundles wrapped in clear plastic tape concealed underneath the carpet behind the gas and brake pedals. The contents of one of the bundles tested positive for 790 grams of methamphetamine, while the other tested positive for marijuana. Estrada admitted to being involved in drug trafficking since 2021.

Estrada was arrested at the checkpoint on Feb. 15, 2023.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Warsame Galaydh for the Western District of Texas prosecuted the case.

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