LAREDO, Texas – A 31-year-old man residing in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute kilograms of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Sergio Bustos-Cruz, Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, pleaded guilty to smuggling 11.62 kilograms of cocaine.
As part of his plea, Bustos-Cruz admitted he attempted to drive through the World Trade Bridge in Laredo on April 21.
Upon arrival, authorities referred him to secondary inspection where an X-ray scan of his tractor trailer revealed anomalies within the roof of the tractor cab. At inspection, law enforcement discovered several bundles containing 11.62 kilograms of cocaine.
U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo will impose sentencing Oct. 18. At that time, Bustos-Cruz faces up to life in prison and a possible $10 million maximum fine.
Bustos-Cruz will remain in custody pending that hearing.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Isaac is prosecuting the case.