Pseudo-job seeker caught with over 40 kilograms of methamphetamine

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A U.S. citizen residing in Reynosa, Mexico, has pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

On April 25, Marco Antonio Rodriguez, 20, approached the Falfurrias Border Patrol checkpoint driving a Ford Escape. He claimed he was heading to Corpus Christi to look for work. However, law enforcement noticed he did not have any personal items or tools in the vehicle.

An x-ray scan then revealed anomalies in the rear quarter panels. Authorities discovered aftermarket compartments on both sides of the vehicle that held 90 black bundles of methamphetamine wrapped in clear cellophane.

The drugs weighed 47.5 kilograms with a 99% purity level.

As part of his plea, Rodriguez admitted he had picked up the vehicle from a residence in Reynosa the day before traveling to the port of entry. Rodriguez knew he was transporting the drugs and planned to drop the vehicle off for unloading in Corpus Christi.

U.S. District Judge Ramos will impose sentencing Feb. 11, 2026. At that time, Rodriguez faces up to life in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.

Border Patrol and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Griffith prosecuted the case.