An individual from Mexico residing illegally in Mission, Texas, has been sentenced for cocaine trafficking. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Rio Grande Valley Office led the investigation that resulted in this sentencing.
Jorge Alberto Galindo-Vargas, aged 44, received a sentence of 210 months in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release. Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane delivered the sentence on February 20. During the court proceedings, Galindo-Vargas acknowledged having served a significant sentence for drug trafficking when he was 17 years old. In response to his statement, Judge Crane remarked, "Unfortunately, you’re in the cocaine business again, and that’s going to cost you another chunk of your life." Galindo-Vargas had entered a guilty plea on June 28, 2024.
Mark Lippa, Deputy Special Agent in Charge at ICE Homeland Security Investigations Rio Grande Valley, commented on the case: “The sentencing of this individual underscores our unwavering commitment to combatting drug trafficking and securing our borders.” He added that the case exemplifies the dedication of agents and law enforcement partners who work tirelessly to bring those involved in illegal activities to justice.
Court documents reveal that on November 1, 2023, law enforcement officers conducted a traffic stop where they discovered 12 kilograms of cocaine inside an ice chest within the vehicle.
Galindo-Vargas remains in custody as he awaits transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility yet to be determined.
The prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Roberto Lopez Jr., Lance Watt, and Brittany Jensen from the Southern District of Texas.
Members of the public are encouraged to report crimes or suspicious activity by contacting the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or using the online tip form.
Further information about ICE HSI’s mission can be found on X: @HSI_SanAntonio.
