LAREDO, Texas – A 48-year-old Mexican Citizen has been indicted on charges of conspiracy to import 5.24 kilograms of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Today, a federal grand jury returned the four-count indictment against Jose Juan Rosales-Vasquez. He is expected to appear for his arraignment before U.S. Magistrate Judge Diana Song Quiroga in the near future.
According to the charges, on Oct. 1, Rosales-Vasquez allegedly attempted to enter the United States from Mexico while driving a Chevrolet Beat sedan. At that time, Rosales-Vasquez allegedly told authorities he traveled to Dallas to visit relatives and presented a valid border crossing card.
However, during an X-ray inspection of his vehicle, law enforcement allegedly discovered anomalies in shopping bags located in the trunk and under the rear passenger seat. Further inspection revealed concealed bundles which tested positive for 5.24 kilograms of cocaine, according to the charges.
If convicted, Rosalez-Vasquez faces up to life in prison and a possible $10 million fine.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul A. Harrison is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.