David Garcia, 39, of Bakersfield, was sentenced on May 5 to 21 years and 10 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and being a felon in possession of a firearm, according to U.S. Attorney Eric Grant.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by federal authorities to address drug trafficking and illegal firearm possession in the region. Law enforcement officials say such cases are part of broader initiatives aimed at reducing violent crime and protecting communities.
According to court documents, law enforcement officers stopped Garcia’s SUV on Oct. 17, 2022, for traffic violations. Garcia had an active parole warrant for his arrest and is identified as a former member of the Varrio Fillmore Trece Sureño criminal street gang. A search of the vehicle uncovered a stolen Glock 29 handgun loaded with eight rounds. Officers also found plastic bags containing methamphetamine (343.5 grams), cocaine (11.2 grams), and a mixture containing both drugs (8.5 grams), along with three digital scales and sandwich bags used for packaging.
Garcia pleaded guilty on Feb. 24, 2025. His criminal history includes a felony robbery conviction from 2016 that prohibits him from possessing firearms or ammunition.
The investigation was conducted by the Bakersfield Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Drug Enforcement Administration; Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Karp prosecuted the case.
The U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of California represents the federal government in all litigation within its jurisdiction—including prosecution of federal crimes—and maintains offices in Sacramento, Fresno, and Bakersfield while serving more than 87,000 square miles across thirty-four counties according to the official website.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America—a nationwide initiative that uses resources from the Department of Justice targeting illegal immigration as well as cartels and transnational criminal organizations.
