CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 24-year-old Alamo woman has pleaded guilty to possessing with the intent to distribute more than 70 kilograms of highly pure meth, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
On Nov. 1, 2021, Jacqueline Garcia was driving a silver SUV northbound on Highway 281 near Alice. Authorities conducted a traffic stop for an unsafe lane change. At that time, a service canine alerted to the rear of the SUV.
A thorough inspection revealed the vehicle’s gas tank to be abnormally solid. Upon examining the contents, law enforcement discovered nine concealed bundles of crystal meth.
Laboratory analysis later confirmed the substance to be meth at 98 percent purity. The drugs totaled more than 175 pounds with an estimated street value of more than $2 million.
At a hearing today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jason B. Libby, Garcia admitted she was knowingly transporting the narcotics to Dallas and expected to be paid upon delivery.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos will impose sentencing June 8. At that time, Garcia faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison as well as a maximum possible $10 million fine.
Garcia has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Marck is prosecuting the case.