Former Deputy Admits To Money Laundering

McALLEN, Texas - Robert Ricardo Maldonado, 49, of Weslaco, has entered a plea of guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, announced U.S. Attorney Kenneth Magidson. Maldonado was a former deputy with the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office.  

From 2001 to November 2013, Maldonado transported currency derived from the distribution of narcotics from various destinations including Detroit, Chicago, Birmingham and elsewhere to the Rio Grande Valley. Maldonado was a paid a percentage of the total amount of the currency transported. He then utilized these funds to purchase various properties and assets.

U.S. District Judge Randy Crane, who accepted the guilty plea, has set sentencing for July 21, 2014. At that time, Maldonado faces up to 20 years in prison along with a potential fine up to $500,000 or twice the amount of the proceeds.

The investigation leading to the charges was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant United States Attorney James Sturgis prosecuting the case.