Trafficking in Narcotics

Adela Lara-Barajas was convicted on August 17, in McAllen, Texas on four separate counts that included: conspiracy to import into the U.S., possession with intent to distribute, and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 13 kilograms of methamphetamine worth an estimated street value of $350,000.^[1]

On April 2, Ms. Lara-Barajas was arrested when, during a routine border inspection, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officers discovered 13 kilograms (28.6 lbs.) of methamphetamine concealed inside a hidden compartment located in the rear of her car.^[2] Ms. Lara-Barajas was arrested and turned over to ICE special agents without incident.^[3]

Trafficking in narcotics is a serious transnational crime.

Conspiracy to Import Narcotics and to Possess with Intent to Distribute
Both conspiracy to import narcotics and to possess with intent to distribute are covered by 21 U.S.C. § 846. It states that any person who attempts or conspires to commit any offense covered by the narcotics laws of the United States will be subject to the penalties prescribed for a completion of the offense.

Possession with Intent to Distribute
Possession with intent to distribute is covered by 21 U.S.C. § 841. It states that it is a crime for a person to possess with the intent to distribute any controlled substance.^[4] Methamphetamine is a controlled substance.^[5]

The punishment for violating section 841 with more than 50 grams of methamphetamine can be as much as life in prison, a fine of up to $20 million, or both.^[6]

Ms. Lara-Barajas’s sentencing is scheduled for October.^[7]

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[1] United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Press Release: Mexican National Convicted of Narcotics Trafficking, Aug, 17, 2005, [hereinafter ICE] available here.
[2] Id.
[3] Id.
[4] 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1).
[5] Id. § 841(b)(1)(A)(viii).
[6] Id. § 841(b)(1)(A).
[7] See ICE, supra note 1.