Violent drug dealer off the streets for possessing 250 grams of meth and pistol

McALLEN, Texas - A 26-year-old Edinburg man has been sentenced for drug charges and possession of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.

Lauro Gonzalez Jr. pleaded guilty April 24, 2023.

Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane has now ordered Gonzalez to serve a total of 12 years in federal prison to be immediately followed by four years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard how Gonzalez had been dealing various narcotics within the community for years and was proud that he had historically been able to avoid apprehension. Judge Crane heard additional evidence of the dangers of meth due to the low cost and its addictiveness. In handing down the sentence, the court noted Gonzalez's lengthy criminal history which includes extensive drug use and distribution.

On Oct. 13, 2021, law enforcement arrived on the scene of a vehicle accident where witnesses reported the driver of a blue BMW had rear ended another vehicle and attempted to flee on foot. Authorities identified the driver as Gonzalez and arrested him for fleeing the accident.

In a subsequent search of Gonzalez's vehicle, law enforcement located 250 grams of meth, psilocybin mushrooms, marijuana, cash, a digital scale and a 9mm pistol with an extended magazine. Gonzalez admitted to selling the drugs found in the vehicle and bragged about usually being able to evade law enforcement. Gonzalez also stated he would have shot at authorities if he was not able to get away and had his gun.

Gonzalez will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Edinburg Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lee Fry and Devin V. Walker prosecuted the case.