Sentencing of Drug Smugglers

On July 18, 2005, rangers at Organ Pipe Cactus NM arrested seven male Mexican nationals who were caught smuggling backpacks of marijuana into the United States. The total weight of the marijuana was 408 pounds. The seven defendants were indicted a month later on one count each of 21 USC 846, conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana, and one count each of 21 USC 841, possession with intent to distribute marijuana. As of March 3rd, six of the defendants had pled guilty to one felony count on each of the conspiracy charges and were sentenced to thirteen months commitment with credit for time served. The seventh defendant also pled guilty to one felony count of the conspiracy charge and was sentenced to fifteen months commitment with time served.  They will be deported upon completion of their sentences.