A Laredo man has pleaded guilty to charges related to cocaine trafficking, according to an announcement from U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Pio Alejandro Campos, 52, admitted in court to possessing cocaine with intent to distribute and conspiracy. Authorities say that in August 2024, Campos used cellphone and WhatsApp messages to discuss selling cocaine. He requested meetings in person rather than continuing the conversations by phone during an undercover operation.
Campos agreed to provide cocaine and negotiated prices depending on where it would be delivered, mentioning San Antonio, Houston, and New Orleans as possible locations. On May 3, 2025, he delivered one kilogram of cocaine in San Antonio for $14,000.
Because Campos has multiple previous convictions in different jurisdictions, he could face a higher penalty. The maximum sentence is life in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 may also be imposed. U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña will set a sentencing date later.
Campos remains in custody until sentencing.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Lou Castillo is handling the prosecution.
