Texas woman sent to prison for smuggling meth in spare tire

McALLEN, Texas – A 50-year-old woman from San Antonio has been ordered to federal prison following her conviction for attempting to import approximately 18 kilograms of meth, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan Patrick.

Kandy Elizabeth Martinez pleaded guilty Dec. 6, 2019.

Today, U.S. District Judge Randy Crane ordered Martinez to serve a 42-month sentence to be immediately followed by three years of supervised of release.

On Sept. 30, 2019, Martinez attempted to gain entry into the United States via the Donna port of entry. During inspection, authorities conducted an X-ray examination which showed anomalies in the rear passenger quarter panel and spare tire located in the cargo area. Law enforcement ultimately found 18 bundles of meth weighing approximately 18 kilograms.

Martinez admitted she knowingly imported the drugs into the United States from Mexico with the intent to deliver them to San Antonio. She expected to be paid $3,000.

The drugs had an approximate street value of $72,000.

She has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the future.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’ s Homeland Security Investigations and Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney M. Alexis Garcia prosecuted the case.