A 47-year-old man, Homero Flores, has pleaded guilty to possessing over 800 grams of cocaine, as announced by U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
The investigation into Flores began in September 2022 when law enforcement received information about cocaine distribution in the Laredo area. During the investigation, authorities discovered clear plastic baggies consistent with narcotics packaging in Flores' trash. Additionally, handwritten notes detailing weights, prices, and street-level terminology related to cocaine sales were found on paper towels.
A search of Flores' residence led to the discovery of a plastic bag containing 850 grams of cocaine along with two firearms. Flores, who has a prior conviction from 2012 for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law due to his status as a convicted felon.
U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña will determine Flores' sentencing at a later date. Flores could face up to 40 years in federal prison and a maximum fine of $5 million.
Flores will remain in custody until the sentencing hearing.
The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Laredo Police Department’s Narcotics Division, with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations and Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Bajew is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation.
