PECOS, Texas — A 23-year old Odessan, Angel Vargas-Valdivia, has been indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly attempting to smuggle methamphetamine from Mexico to Dallas.
One attorney from the Western District of Texas and a special agent for the Homeland Security Investigations El Paso Division made the announcement.
According to the affidavit attached to a complaint, Valdivia attempted to enter the United States from Mexico through the Presidio Port of Entry on Aug. 8.
During a Customs and Border Protection inspection, officers noticed evidence of tampering on the rear quarter panels of Valdivia's vehicle, as well as abnormally heavy vehicle doors. X-ray imaging revealed anomalies within the vehicle’s quarter panels, side doors, rear cargo door, trunk and roof.
Further inspection revealed 154 bundles weighing approximately 72.2 kilograms. A crystal-like substance extracted from the bundles tested positive for properties of methamphetamine.
If convicted, he faces a penalty of 10 years to life in prison.
HSI is still investigating the case and NewsWest 9 will update this story once further information is provided.