Two RGV woman convicted in meth conspiracy

McALLEN, Texas – Two local women have admitted to conspiring with each other to import approximately 50 kilograms of 99% pure meth from Mexico, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Helen Garza, 43, Rio Grande City, and Herminia Cantu-Garcia, 43, Roma pleaded guilty today and Feb. 26, respectively.

The woman planned to import the narcotics Dec. 4, 2019. On that date, Garza drove a car from Mexico and attempted to enter the United States through the Roma Port of Entry. Authorities inspected the vehicle and found hidden compartments within its tires. Upon further examination, they ultimately found multiple bundles containing 50 kilograms of meth with a value of approximately $170,000.

Garza admitted she knew there were drugs in the car.

Further investigation revealed Cantu-Garcia had coordinated the drug trafficking with Garza and other individuals.

U.S. District Judge Randy Crane accepted the pleas and has set sentencing for May 4 and 12 for Cantu-Garcia and Garza, respectively. At that time, both women face up to life in federal prison and a possible $10 million fine.

They both have been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with assistance from Border Patrol and Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristina Pekkala is prosecuting the case.