Nearly 30 people were arrested by federal agents this week for participating in a drug ring with ties back to a Mexican drug cartel. The ring was called the “United Nations” of drug rings because of its unusual diversity. The makeup of this ring simply shows that the stereotypical drug dealer isn’t always what people think.
According to KFDM the investigation leading up to the arrests included cooperation between several agencies including the DEA, ICE, Houston Police, Galveston Police, Texas Rangers, Department of Public Safety, and Sheriff’s Departments in Jefferson, Chambers, and Orange county. Although all 28 will be facing federal charges, these cases could have just as easily been filed in state court.
The ring involved distribution of meth and cocaine. According to the Houston Chronicle, the parties were distributing the drugs without discrimination—to urban areas and suburban communities alike. “It’s like they were delivering pizzas” said DEA agent Bill Furay.
The most unusual aspect of the case is said to be the diversity within it. It’s pretty common to see drug rings stay pretty close to one ethnic or racial background. This group, however, crossed racial lines and language barriers alike.
The group was said to include Mexican-Americans, African-Americans, white Americans, Mexicans, Hondurans, and one each Pakistani and Israeli citizens. Not all are here legally, however, and will face deportation after resolution of their criminal charges.
Society often thinks of drug dealers as the down trodden members of society, existing in dark alleys and on corners in the roughest neighborhoods. Often, though they are reluctant to admit it, people pin these stereotypes on ethnic minorities. Stories like this show just how diverse criminal behavior is.
It doesn’t matter where you live, where you were born, or what color your skin is—you too could be involved in serious drug crimes.
Facing charges like distribution of a controlled substance can be life-changing and seriously stressful. You can go to prison for two years for distributing less than a single gram of cocaine. Three grams and you can face up to 20 years. With these kinds of penalties it makes no sense to go it alone.
If you are facing charges of manufacturing or distributing a controlled substance, please contact us for help. Let’s discuss the evidence they have against you and how we can defend you against the charges.
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