Two charged with fentanyl trafficking

LAREDO, TEXAS - Two Texas men are charged with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and conspiracy to do so, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.

A federal grand jury has returned a two-count indictment against Hernan Cortez, 40, Houston, and Daniel Elizondo, 37, Laredo. Previously in custody upon the filing of a criminal complaint Aug. 30, they are expected to make an appearance on the indictment before a U.S. magistrate judge in the near future.

According to the charges, Cortez transported approximately a half of a kilogram of fentanyl from Houston to Laredo Aug. 28. He allegedly intended to sell the drugs in Laredo with Elizondo's assistance.

On Aug. 29, Cortez brought the fentanyl to a stash house where Elizondo was located, according to the complaint. Elizondo allegedly exited the stash house wearing a black satchel bag and walked into an alleyway connected to an adjoining property. Soon thereafter, he no longer had the bag, according to the charges.

The complaint alleges authorities executed a search warrant and found 508 grams of fentanyl hidden in a tire wheel in the alleyway where Elizondo had been.

If convicted, Cortez and Elizondo face up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $10 million maximum fine.

The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of Homeland Security Investigations, Webb County Precinct 1 Constables Office, Webb County Sheriff's Office and the Laredo Police Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew P. Hakala-Finch is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.