HSI, federal partner investigation, resulted in the indictment in a Visa holder for trafficking cocaine through World Trade Bridge

LAREDO, Texas — A Mexican national, residing in Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, was charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine, following an investigation conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA).

Sergio Bustos-Cruz, 31, was indicted on two counts for A South Texas grand jury returned a two-count indictment for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine.

According to court documents, Bustos-Cruz allegedly attempted to drive through the World Trade Bridge in Laredo on April 21. Upon arrival, authorities referred him to secondary inspection where an X-ray can of his vehicle revealed anomalies within the roof of the tractor cab, according to the charges. Upon further inspection, law enforcement allegedly discovered several bundles containing 11.62 kilograms of cocaine. The charges further allege he is in violation of the terms of his non-immigrant Visa and could face removal proceedings.

If convicted, Bustos-Cruz faces up to life in prison and a possible $10 million maximum fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Isaac, Southern District of Texas, is prosecuting the case.

HSI is a directorate of ICE and the principal investigative arm of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), responsible for investigating transnational crime and threats, specifically those criminal organizations that exploit the global infrastructure through which international trade, travel, and finance move. HSI’s workforce of over 10,400 employees consists of more than 7,100 special agents assigned to 220 cities throughout the United States, and 80 overseas locations in 53 countries. HSI’s international presence represents DHS’s largest investigative law enforcement presence abroad and one of the largest international footprints in U.S. law enforcement.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.