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. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent in Charge Daniel C. Comeaux of the Houston Division and 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.