BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 44-year-old San Benito resident has pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to distribute liquid meth, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Pedro Rodriguez III pleaded guilty today to possessing with intent to distribute approximately 253.2 kilograms of liquid meth.
On Jan. 11, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of Rodriguez III after he switched lanes without signaling. They soon discovered he had several pending state arrest warrants and took him into custody.
As they conducted a search of his vehicle, they found approximately 253.2 kilograms of liquid meth hidden inside an auxiliary gas tank. Rodriguez III admitted he knew the meth was inside the gas tank and had agreed to transport the narcotics from South Texas to Dallas.
Rodriguez III is set for sentencing before U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera on Oct. 5. At that time, he faces up to life in prison and a possible $10 million maximum fine.
Rodriguez III will remain in custody pending sentencing.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of the San Benito Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edgardo J. Rodriguez prosecuted the case.