Jonathan D. Ross U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas
Victor Garcia, a resident of Palmdale, California, has been sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for drug trafficking. The announcement was made by Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas. The sentence was delivered by United States District Judge D.P. Marshall Jr.
Garcia, aged 43, was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 5, 2023, with charges of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. He pleaded guilty to these charges on November 4, 2024.
The case began on December 21, 2022, when the Conway Police Department conducted a traffic stop. During this stop, officers discovered that Garcia had a federal warrant for drug distribution from California. A pat-down search revealed a methamphetamine pipe in his possession and he admitted to having marijuana in the vehicle's center console. Both Garcia and his passenger provided inconsistent stories during questioning.
Further investigation led officers to discover over 20 kilograms of pure methamphetamine hidden in an after-market compartment within the vehicle. This discovery included five vacuum-sealed bags containing the substance.
Judge Marshall's sentencing includes five years of supervised release following Garcia's prison term. It is noted that there is no parole in the federal system.
The FBI led the investigation with assistance from the Conway Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Erin O’Leary prosecuted the case.
