A man has been sentenced to over 27 years in federal prison for his role in a Waco-based drug ring.
A federal judge sentenced 33-year-old Jeremiah Hector Marquez to 327 months in federal prison for his leadership role in a methamphetamine distribution operation.
Marquez's sentencing was the final sentence handed down in this indictment.
Officials say all 20 indicted defendants were convicted in this case for their roles in the distribution scheme.
Eighteen of the defendants received federal prison terms ranging from two years to life imprisonment. One defendant was sentenced to time served and one defendant received probation.
In August 2018, a federal grand jury indictment charged the defendants, including Waco resident and fellow ringleader Daniel Louis Lopez who is currently serving a life sentence, with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
From May 2017 to the time of the indictment, authorities say the defendants were responsible for the distribution of more than 12 kilograms of methamphetamine throughout Waco and Central Texas.
On April 2, 2019, Marquez pleaded guilty to the conspiracy charge.
U.S. District Judge Alan Albright also ordered that Marquez pay a $5,000 fine and be placed on supervised release for a period of five years after completing his prison term.
“Methamphetamine or “meth” destroys lives. It’s a highly addictive poison and those that sell it are victimizing our communities. If you deal meth in Central Texas, you can expect to spend a long time in prison,” stated U.S. Attorney Sofer.
