“Captain” of Mexican Mafia in Laredo convicted

LAREDO, Texas – A 49-year-old Laredo resident has entered a guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and by an unlawful user or addict of narcotics, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.

Rogelio Garza admitted that on Oct. 28, 2021, he was in possession of a 9mm Taurus Model P111 G2A black pistol.

The investigation revealed Garza was selling narcotics out of a home located on the 3000 block of North Louisiana Avenue. Authorities were able to later to perform a traffic stop, at which time they discovered the firearm with one round in its chamber. They also found two grams of meth, one gram of heroin, six rounds of ammunition in a magazine and two glass pipes in the vehicle.

Garza knew he was a convicted felon who was not allowed to own a firearm. He further acknowledged he had purchased the firearm on the street from an unknown man for $200. He said he carried it for protection.

Garza has admitted to being a high-level member of the Mexican Mafia for the past 20 years, calling himself a “captain” who was asked to be the top Mexican Mafia member in Laredo. Garza additionally admitted to being addicted to various narcotics.

Law enforcement learned that Garza has six prior felony convictions, including four convictions for narcotics distribution. As such, he is prohibited per federal law of possessing a firearm or ammunition.

Garza has been and will remain in custody pending his sentencing at a later date before U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña. At that time, Garza faces at least 15 years and up to life in prison and a maximum $250,000 fine.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul A. Harrison is prosecuting the case.