Career offender admits to drug trafficking

LAREDO, Texas – A 52-year-old Laredo resident has admitted to possession with intent to distribute cocaine and conspiracy to do so, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

In August 2024, Pio Alejandro Campos engaged in a series of cellphone and WhatsApp communications involving the potential sale of cocaine. During the course of the undercover operation, he sought to meet in person to discuss specifics rather than communicating via phone. 

Campos agreed to supply cocaine and discussed pricing based on delivery location, including San Antonio, Houston and New Orleans. On May 3, 2025, he delivered one kilogram of cocaine in San Antonio for $14,000.

Campos has multiple prior convictions in various jurisdictions. As such, he faces a potential enhanced penalty and could receive up to life in prison. U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña will set a sentencing date at a later time. At the hearing, Campos could also be ordered to pay a possible $250,000 maximum fine. 

He has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.

Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Lou Castillo is prosecuting the case.