Mexican drug dealer gets 15 years in prison for trafficking in south carolina — Plastic packet with cocaine powder or another drugs in mans hand. Close-up macro photo.

SPARTANBURG, S.C. — A Mexican national residing in the United States illegally was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison on Friday after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm in connection with drug trafficking activities.

Sergio Magallan-Tinoco, 45, also known as “John Migo,” was apprehended after law enforcement in South Carolina’s Upstate conducted controlled drug purchases in the fall of 2023. The investigation led to a search warrant for his residence, where officers discovered additional fentanyl and cocaine, a money counter, scales, and a loaded .380 caliber handgun.

Authorities determined that Magallan-Tinoco was responsible for trafficking 20 kilograms of cocaine. He had previously been convicted of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, a factor that contributed to his sentencing.

United States District Judge Donald C. Coggins handed down a 180-month prison sentence, to be followed by a five-year term of supervised release. The court also imposed a $400,000 forfeiture judgment on Magallan-Tinoco. Federal sentencing guidelines do not allow for parole.

The conviction highlights ongoing efforts by federal and local authorities to combat drug trafficking and the violent crimes associated with it in South Carolina.

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