Two Valley women pleaded guilty to conspiring with each other to import approximately 50 kilograms of 99 percent pure meth from Mexico on Feb. 26.
According to a release, Helen Garza, 43, from Rio Grande City and Herminia Cantu-Garcia, 43, from Roma, planned to import narcotics on Dec. 4.
The release states Garza drove the vehicle from Mexico and attempted to enter the U.S. through the Roma Port of Entry. Authorities inspected the vehicle and found hidden compartments within its tires. After further examination, multiple bundles containing 50 kilograms of meth valued at $170,000 were found.
Authorities added Garza admitted she knew there were drugs in the vehicle.
Further investigation revealed Cantu-Garcia coordinated with Garza and other individuals to traffic the drugs.
U.S. District Judge Randy Crane accepted the pleas and has set sentencing for May 4 and 12 for Cantu-Garcia and Garza, said the release.
According to the release, both have been and will remain in custody until their hearing date.
Garcia and Garza face up to life in prison and a possible $10 million fine, said the release.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with assistance from Border Patrol and Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristina Pekkala is prosecuting the case.
