Local man indicted for smuggling multiple drugs in cardboard box

LAREDO, Texas – A 46-year-old resident of Pharr has been charged with importing kilogram quantities of meth, heroin and cocaine, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.

A federal grand jury returned the indictment today against Eduardo Maldonado. Previously charged by complaint, he remains in custody pending his  arraignment in the near future.

Maldonado allegedly conspired with others to import 1.42, 2.04 and 4.16 kilograms of meth, heroin and cocaine, respectively.  

On Feb. 8, Maldonado applied for entry into the United States a passenger on a commercial bus that arrived at the Lincoln-Juarez bridge Port of Entry in Laredo, according to the indictment. Authorities had conducted an X-ray scan of the luggage and allegedly observed anomalies in a cardboard box. A K-9 unit then positively alerted for the presence of contraband, according to the charges. Law enforcement allegedly determined the box belonged to Maldonado.

A physical search of the box revealed a total of nine packages, all which allegedly tested positive for cocaine, meth and heroin. The drugs have a combined estimated street value of $162,000.

If convicted, Maldonado faces up to life in prison and a possible $10 million fine.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul A. Harrison is prosecuting the case.

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