Former Mexican Police Officer Guilty to Possessing over 60 Pounds of Meth

ALPINE, TX— A former Mexican police officer has pleaded guilty to possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute.

In information released by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Texas, a Mexican national, who was formerly a Mexican police officer, pleaded guilty in an Alpine court to possession of 27.8 kilograms, or over 60 pounds of methamphetamine with intent to distribute.

According to court documents, Cesar Alonzo Lopez Ruiz, 34, of Rosales, Mexico, attempted entry into the United States from Mexico at the Presidio Point of Entry. A search of his vehicle uncovered 50 packages of meth that were hidden inside the gas tank that weighed 61.28 pounds.

Ruiz pled guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute meth and is scheduled to be sentenced on August 26, 2024. The potential penalty is 10 years to life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza of the Western District of Texas made the announcement. Homeland Security, as well as Customs and Border Protection, are investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott Greenbaum and Amy Greenbaum are prosecuting.