A Corpus Christi resident has pleaded guilty to charges related to drug trafficking and firearms possession, according to an announcement from U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Evaristo Coleman, 37, admitted in court that he sold cocaine and crack cocaine from his apartment in Corpus Christi. The case began in January after authorities received several reports about suspected drug sales at the location. Law enforcement conducted surveillance and observed frequent visitors who were identified as customers purchasing drugs.
In February, police executed a search warrant at Coleman's residence. During the search, officers found more than 100 grams of crack cocaine and nearly 300 grams of powder cocaine. They also discovered two 9mm pistols that Coleman had while conducting drug sales.
U.S. District Judge David Morales is scheduled to sentence Coleman on Nov. 20. He faces up to 40 years in prison for the drug charge and a minimum of five years—and up to life—for the firearms charge, which must be served consecutively with any other prison term imposed. Both convictions could result in fines of up to $250,000 each.
Coleman remains in custody as he awaits sentencing.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives worked with the Corpus Christi Police Department on this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Griffith is prosecuting the case.
