Damien Diggs U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Texas
A significant investigation into a drug trafficking operation in East Texas has concluded with multiple individuals receiving federal prison sentences. The announcement was made by Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr.
The investigation, which began in 2021, targeted a drug trafficking organization led by Edgar Garcia, Jr., identified as the primary distributor of methamphetamine throughout East Texas. Law enforcement agencies executed search warrants, conducted controlled purchases of methamphetamine and firearms from Garcia and his associates, and intercepted narcotics and firearms during traffic stops. These efforts resulted in the seizure of multiple kilograms of methamphetamine.
Additionally, law enforcement recovered nearly a dozen firearms from members of the organization. These weapons were involved in narcotics transactions or used to protect illegal drugs.
The case was prosecuted under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a collaborative program aimed at reducing violent crime through evidence-based strategies. PSN involves federal, state, and local stakeholders working together to address pressing violent crime issues within communities by focusing on high-risk offenders and supporting prevention and reentry initiatives.
The following individuals have been sentenced:
- Edgar Garcia Jr., 26, Nacogdoches: 151 months
- Justin Michael Sanchez, 33, Nacogdoches: 235 months
- Beverly Hurst, 26, Center: 151 months
- Jason Clepper, 36, Goliad: 150 months
- Blake Trahan, 29, Center: 48 months
- Austin Yarbrough, 32, Timpson: 188 months
- Laddarus Perkins, 40, Timpson: 135 months
- Jeanese Fenley, 43, Timpson: 70 months
- Koury Nowell, 49 Gary City: 33 months
The investigation involved several agencies including the FBI; Bureau of Alcohol; Tobacco; Firearms and Explosives; Texas Department of Public Safety; Shelby County Sheriff’s Office; Nacogdoches County Sheriff’s Office; and Panola County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Donald S. Carter and Lucas Machicek prosecuted the case.
