McALLEN, Texas - Macario Garcia Jr., 54, of Mexico, has been arrested after 22 years on the run, United States Attorney Kenneth Magidson and acting U.S. Marshal Elizabeth Saenz announced today. Garcia was arrested in Weslaco, Texas, on Feb. 22, 2012, as a result of a federal arrest warrant which was issued in September 1989.

“22 years of looking over your shoulder is no way to live,” said Saenz. “Macario Garcia Jr. learned today what many fugitives before him have learned - we will never give up, we will never stop, justice will prevail.”

Garcia was required to appear in federal court on Sept. 12, 1989, for a sentencing in connection with a then pending drug charge. He failed to do so and on Sept. 19, 1989, Garcia was indicted by a federal grand jury for failing to appear as required and a warrant was issued for his arrest. Garcia remained a fugitive for 22 years until his arrest by United States Marshals yesterday.  

Garcia appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Dorina Ramos at 9:45 this morning and has been ordered temporarily detained without bond pending arraignment and a detention hearing set for Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2012, at 11:30 a.m.

If convicted of failing to appear, Garcia faces up to five years in prison and a maximum $250,000 fine.

The investigation leading to the charge of failing to appear was initiated by the United States Marshals Service. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney-in-Charge Terry L. Leonard.

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