United States Attorney Richard B. Roper
Northern District of Texas

DALLAS GANG MEMBER PLEADS GUILTY TO METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGES -
FACES UP TO LIFE IN PRISON

DALLAS — Arturo Tinoco, of Dallas, pled guilty today to two counts of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Richard B. Roper of the Northern District of Texas. Tinoco, 27, faces a maximum statutory sentence of not less than 10 years in prison and up to life in prison. He is scheduled to be sentenced on June 27, 2008, by U.S. District Judge Barbara M.G. Lynn.

According to the factual resume filed in the case, Tinoco admitted that he knowingly and intentionally possessed, with intent to distribute, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in July 2006 and in February 2007. Specifically, on July 20, 2006, members of the Dallas Police Department saw Tinoco in a black Lincoln Towncar driving eastbound in the 4700 block of Tremont Street in Dallas and stopped him for a traffic violation. He had outstanding warrants and was arrested; the car was impounded. Law enforcement found a bag containing methamphetamine in the trunk of the vehicle. On February 15, 2007, Tinoco was again stopped by Dallas Police Officers after he had committed a traffic violation. He couldn’t produce a driver’s license and when the officer checked Tinoco’s name
on the computer, it showed that he has a suspended license. He was arrested and his vehicle was searched. Officers located at least 64 grams of methamphetamine in the trunk, which Tinoco admitted he intended for distribution.

Evidence presented at Tinoco’s detention hearing revealed that he is a member of the East-Side Homeboys gang.

As part of the plea agreement with the government, Tinoco also agrees to forfeit a .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol.

U.S. Attorney Roper praised the investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Dallas Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Camille Sparks is prosecuting the case.

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