Methamphetamine Trafficker in San Antonio Sentenced to More Than 21 Years in Federal Prison

In San Antonio yesterday, 60-year-old Elias Mejia, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced to 262 months in federal prison for trafficking in methamphetamine announced United States Attorney Richard L. Durbin, Jr., Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge Joseph M. Arabit, Houston Division, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent in Charge Shane Folden, San Antonio. 

On March 9, 2016, Mejia pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.  By pleading guilty, Mejia admitted that from October 2, 2014, until November 5, 2015, he was responsible for the trafficking and distribution of approximately 34.5 kilograms of “crystal” methamphetamine in the San Antonio area.

Mejia was arrested on November 5, 2014, in San Antonio and has remained in federal custody since.

“Today’s sentence highlights the success agencies can achieve and the impact they can have when they bring their resources together. DEA will continue to work together with our law enforcement partners and pursue those who threaten our communities through the smuggling and distribution of illegal and dangerous drugs,” stated DEA Special Agent in Charge Joseph M. Arabit.   

“The sentencing of Mejia, to a total of 262 months in federal prison, sends a clear message of the serious consequences awaiting those who engage criminal activity,” said Special Agent in Charge, Shane Folden, HSI San Antonio. “HSI will continue to utilize its broad authorities, in concert with its federal, state and local partners, to bring to justice those who blatantly ignore the laws of this nation.”

The case resulted from an investigation by the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HITDA) Task Force led by the DEA and HSI.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Charlie Strauss and Matthew Lathrop.