Local Drug Dealer Sent to Prison for 2 Decades

SAN ANGELO, TX – A San Angelo drug dealer was sentenced to two decades worth of prison time on Wednesday.

According to court documents, on May 18, 2023, Juan Antonio Lira, 46, of San Angelo, pleaded guilty to evading arrest with a vehicle and manufacture and delivery of a controlled substance. In exchange for the guilty plea, Lira was sentenced to 20 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice's Institutional Division.

Lira was first arrested for this crime in November 2022. At that time, Lira led San Angelo Police on a chase through north San Angelo. The chase ended after Lira crashed near the Concho Bridge. During the chase, Lira threw a baggie out the vehicle's window. Police said the baggie contained nearly 60 grams of methamphetamine. It was later discovered at his hotel room that he was in possession of marijuana, cocaine, and Xanax as well.

For the original arrest story see: San Angelo Police Find 2.5lbs of Meth in a Motel After Arresting Drug Dealer in Traffic Stop