ICE Rio Grande Valley, federal partner investigation results in the sentencing of illegal alien for drug trafficking in South Texas

MCALLEN, Texas — A illegal alien from Mexico was sentenced for trafficking cocaine following an investigation conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Rio Grande Valley Office.

Jorge Alberto Galindo-Vargas, 44, illegally residing in Mission, Texas, was sentenced Feb. 20 by Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane to serve 210 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. During the hearing, Galindo-Vargas spoke to the court noting that he had previously received a large sentence for drug trafficking at the age of 17. In handing down the sentence, in response to Galindo-Vargas statements, Judge Crane stated “Unfortunately, you’re in the cocaine business again, and that’s going to cost you another chunk of your life.” Galindo-Vargas pleaded guilty June 28, 2024.

“The sentencing of this individual underscores our unwavering commitment to combatting drug trafficking and securing our borders,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Rio Grande Valley Deputy Special Agent in Charge, Mark Lippa. “This case is a testament to the tireless efforts of our dedicated agents and law enforcement partners who work diligently to ensure that those who engage in illegal activities are brought to justice. We remain steadfast in our mission to protect our communities from the dangers posed by drug trafficking and to uphold the rule of law.”

According to court documents, on Nov. 1, 2023, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop. Upon inspection, authorities discovered 12 kilograms of cocaine inside an ice chest inside the vehicle.

Galindo-Vargas remains in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Roberto Lopez Jr., Lance Watt and Brittany Jensen from the Southern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

Members of the public can report crimes or suspicious activity by dialing the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

Learn more about ICE HSI’s mission to increase public safety in Central and South Texas communities on X: @HSI_SanAntonio.