When you come into the United States and participate in a crime, you could face criminal penalties in the country. That’s what’s happening to a Mexican national who has been sentenced on drug charges in Texas.
A news article following the case described the man as a 34-year-old man who helped traffic marijuana across the border. He was living in El Paso when he was arrested. He faced charges including money laundering and drug trafficking; he pleaded guilty and received a sentence for 97 days in prison.
After the time spent in prison, the man will be deported, according to the New Mexico Department of Justice. He is just one of the people who faces trouble in this so-called crime ring. Eleven others also face drug trafficking and money laundering charges for illegally distributing marijuana in western Texas and southeastern New Mexico.
The Pecos Valley Drug Task Force commander stated that marijuana trafficking is still a major concern in these communities despite changing laws. Additionally, this investigation revealed that the men were transporting large quantities of illegal goods on top of marijuana. Some included heroin, weapons and methamphetamine.
Marijuana itself is not seen as negatively in the United States today as it was previously, but it’s important to remember that it’s still illegal to have it in any state that does not have legal recreational use or medical marijuana laws. Additionally, having higher quantities than allowed can end up landing you in trouble with the law. Despite changing laws, marijuana is still illegal in Texas and New Mexico, so if you face charges, you need a strong defense.
Source: Current Argus, “Mexican national sentenced on drug charges,” Adrian C. Hedden, April 17, 2017