Nicholas J. Ganjei United States Attorney for the Southern District of Texas | U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas
A resident of Edcouch, Texas, Fernando Aguilera-Chavez, has pleaded guilty to charges related to cocaine possession with the intent to distribute. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
The case stems from a traffic stop conducted on December 13, 2024, near Mercedes, Texas. During the stop, authorities searched a Ford F-150 driven by Aguilera-Chavez and discovered 30 packages wrapped in clear plastic and duct tape. These bundles weighed approximately 30.4 kilograms and tested positive for cocaine. Aguilera-Chavez admitted to knowing he possessed the narcotics and intended to distribute them.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 9 before U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton. Aguilera-Chavez could face up to life in federal prison along with a potential maximum fine of $10 million. He remains in custody until the hearing.
The investigation was carried out by the Drug Enforcement Administration with support from the Hidalgo County Constables Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jose A. Garcia is prosecuting the case.
