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Multiple Mexican Prison Gang Members Sentenced to Decades in Federal Prison

Seven members of the Partido Revolucionario Mexicano (PRM) prison gang were sentenced in a federal court in Del Rio to a combined 137 years in prison for their roles in a cocaine trafficking conspiracy. Image for illustration purposes
Seven members of the Partido Revolucionario Mexicano (PRM) prison gang were sentenced in a federal court in Del Rio to a combined 137 years in prison for their roles in a cocaine trafficking conspiracy. Image for illustration purposes

U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Texas

DEL RIO, Texas – Seven members of the Partido Revolucionario Mexicano (PRM) prison gang were sentenced in a federal court in Del Rio to a combined 137 years in prison for their roles in a cocaine trafficking conspiracy.

According to court documents, Victor Hinojosa aka Zuko, 35; Martha Gonzalez Ritchie, 64; Jesus Espinoza, 33; and Francisco Espinoza, 29; Ernesto Magdaleno, 56; Armando Ramirez aka Mando, 36; and Danny Suarez, 41, all from Eagle Pass, trafficked cocaine in and around Eagle Pass and Del Rio daily between March 1, 2019, and June 1, 2021. Hinojosa, identified as a sergeant of the PRM, conspired with others by communicating with them through Facebook messenger or cell phone to discuss cocaine distribution activities. Jesus and Francisco Espinoza, Suarez, and another co-defendant would regularly supply Hinojosa with the cocaine. Drug Enforcement Administration agents conducted multiple controlled purchases from Hinojosa throughout their investigation.

All seven defendants were arrested on June 11, 2021. Hinojosa, Jesus Espinoza and Francisco Espinoza each pleaded guilty in 2022 to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine. Ritchie also pleaded guilty in 2022 to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin.

On June 5, Chief U.S. District Judge Alia Moses sentenced Hinojosa and Ritchie each to 30 years in prison, Jesus Espinoza to 17 ½ years in prison, and Francisco Espinoza to 19 ½ years in prison. The following week, on June 13, Chief Judge Moses sentenced Magdaleno and Ramirez each to 14 years in prison, and Suarez to 12 years.

“This criminal conspiracy extends way beyond the bounds of narcotics distribution,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Simmons for the Western District of Texas. “PRM is a violent prison gang that operates on both sides the U.S.-Mexico border. These PRM members who have been convicted and sentenced should reemphasize to other narcoterrorists the level of our resolve when it comes to the eradication of transnational criminal organizations and providing safer border communities.”

Other co-defendants in this case who continue to await their sentence hearings include Rodolfo Jimenez Jr., Eduardo Gloria, Saul Sanchez-Rosas, Yvonne Rodriguez-Torres, Luis Alberto Torres-Marquez, Paulino Ramirez, Louis Iglesias, Martha Perez, and Randy Crioyos.

Co-defendant Carlos Eduardo Saldana Jr. was sentenced in August 2023 to 10 years in federal prison; Kevin Ritchie was sentenced in October 2023 to 35 years imprisonment; Clinton Ritchie was sentenced in July 2024 to 19 ½ years in federal prison; and Carlos Daniel Rodriguez-Urrabazo was also sentenced in July 2024 to 7 years in prison.

The DEA and FBI led the investigation, known as Operation Tequila Sunset. Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Border Patrol, Texas Department of Public Safety, the Eagle Pass Police Department, and the Sheriff’s Offices from Maverick, Dimmitt and Val Verde counties assisted.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Brett Miner prosecuted the case.

These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

BCIC Announces Space Accelerator Program

This initiative is made possible through key partnerships with Cameron County, the Greater Brownsville Incentives Corporation (GBIC) and Space Foundation. Set to begin in August, the 8-week accelerator aims to support local startups and businesses with ties to the growing space economy. Image for illustration purposes
This initiative is made possible through key partnerships with Cameron County, the Greater Brownsville Incentives Corporation (GBIC) and Space Foundation. Set to begin in August, the 8-week accelerator aims to support local startups and businesses with ties to the growing space economy. Image for illustration purposes

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – The Brownsville Community Corporation (BCIC) is proud to announce the launch of a new Space Accelerator Program in collaboration with the Space Foundation. This initiative is made possible through key partnerships with Cameron County, the Greater Brownsville Incentives Corporation (GBIC) and Space Foundation. Set to begin in August, the 8-week accelerator aims to support local startups and businesses with ties to the growing space economy. The program will equip a cohort of 8-10 companies with the tools, mentorship, and resources needed to scale their ventures. Participants will also learn how to apply for federal funding, like SBIR/STTR grants, and build long-term success in the space industry. 

Courtesy image

“Brownsville is uniquely positioned to become a leader in space innovation,” said Nathan Burkhart, Vice President of Entrepreneurship & Innovation at BCIC. “We’ve always believed in the incredible talent within our community, and with the momentum building in Brownsville—alongside the strong partnerships and resources at the eBridge Center—we’re excited to expand into this field. Programs like Startup Texas have already demonstrated our region’s ability to cultivate high-impact ventures, with local founders securing hundreds of thousands in early-stage funding. We’re especially grateful to Cameron County for their continued support in helping us invest in the future of our region.”

Developed in collaboration with Space Foundation, a leading nonprofit supporting global space innovation and education, the Space Accelerator will deliver tailored instruction from top industry experts via virtual workshops, 1:1 mentorship, and strategic guidance. Each week, participants will explore topics like market segmentation, commercialization strategies, government contracting, and creating a space economy roadmap.

“Bringing space opportunities to regions isn’t just about rockets–it’s about unlocking economic potential. When companies see how their capabilities connect to the growing space industry, they realize they’re not on the outside looking in–they’re already part of the future,” said Kelli Kedis Ogborn, Vice President of Space Commerce and Entrepreneurship at the Space Foundation.

This partnership further highlights Brownsville’s growing reputation as an emerging tech hub and dynamic city. Recently ranked as the #1 metro area in the U.S. for economic growth, #2 among America’s emerging tech hubs, Brownsville increasingly attracts innovators and entrepreneurs eager to participate in its thriving economy.

“Brownsville has the potential to be a key player in a global space economy projected to surpass $1 trillion by 2040,” said Cori, President and Chief Executive Officer at BCIC. “Through the Space Accelerator, we’re turning that potential into action. We’re supporting local entrepreneurs by connecting them to new markets, unlocking access to larger funding sources, and creating jobs that keep people and talent rooted in our community.”

In bringing this vision to life, BCIC is proud to collaborate closely with regional partners such as the Cameron County and the Greater Brownsville Incentives Corporation (GBIC), ensuring that our collective strengths drive lasting economic impact.

“In Cameron County, we understand that small businesses drive our economy. That is why the Cameron County Commissioners’ Court is proud to partner with BCIC to offer the Space Accelerator program in Cameron County,” stated Judge Eddie Treviño, Jr. “The Space Foundation is the premier organization in the country that provides excellence in education, collaboration, and information to advance the global space economy. This program offers empowerment to our local small businesses, entrepreneurs, and startups looking to expand into the space ecosystem.”

Applications for the Space Accelerator program opened June 20, 2025, and close July 25, with selected participants notified by August 1. Interested applicants are encouraged to attend online and in-person informational sessions in July to determine if this program aligns with their business goals. For more information or to apply, visit https://spaceaccelerator.org. 

Celebrating Over 50 Years of Title IX: A Champion for Educational Equality

It has been more than five decades since the passage of Title IX, the landmark federal civil rights law that bars sex-based discrimination in education. Image for illustration purposes
It has been more than five decades since the passage of Title IX, the landmark federal civil rights law that bars sex-based discrimination in education. Image for illustration purposes

U.S. Department of Justice

It has been more than five decades since the passage of Title IX, the landmark federal civil rights law that bars sex-based discrimination in education.

Only 37 words long, Title IX has advanced equal opportunity in admissions, financial aid, athletics, and more in educational settings across the United States. At its core, the law operates as a contract between the federal government and educational institutions. It conditions the acceptance of federal funding to schools on the agreement to comply with not discriminating on the basis of sex in their programs and activities.

Equality under Title IX was also built on the understanding that physical differences between men and women matter, particularly in athletics and private spaces. Whether in the locker room, on the playing field, or in college dorms, women and girls fought for the right to fair educational and athletic opportunities.

Protecting fairness today means meeting one of the most pressing challenges that Title IX faces: the inclusion of males in women’s single-sex spaces and activities.

“The recent cultural movement to erase biological distinctions has metastasized into misguided policies across our country,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, “This Division will continue to stand firmly in defense of the immutable biological reality of sex in preserving the fairness, safety, privacy, and speech of all Americans.”

The Civil Rights Division is committed to continuing the legacy and original intent of Title IX, and we will not back down.

Earlier this month, we warned California Public School Districts that they may be violating the Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution for allowing males to compete against females in high school sports. The state of California has pre-emptively sued the Department of Justice over this warning, and we are now in active litigation. We also opened an inquiry into concerns raised to us about similar issues in the state of Oregon.

In another case, we opened an investigation into a Virginia school, arising from three male students who raised concerns — partially based on faith — about a girl in their locker room. The boys were then subjected to Title IX investigations, which may have been potentially retaliatory.

The Department of Justice celebrates the protections afforded by Title IX today, and the Civil Rights Division will continue to uphold its responsibility by enforcing the equality and justice it has provided to generations of Americans.

Updated June 23, 2025

251 New Immigration Cases Filed in Western District of Texas, Fewest Since March

United States Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas has announced that federal prosecutors in the district filed 251 new immigration and immigration-related criminal cases from June 13 through 19. Image for illustration purposes
United States Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas has announced that federal prosecutors in the district filed 251 new immigration and immigration-related criminal cases from June 13 through 19. Image for illustration purposes

U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Texas

SAN ANTONIO –United States Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas has announced that federal prosecutors in the district filed 251 new immigration and immigration-related criminal cases from June 13 through 19.

These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO), U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas comprises 68 counties located in the central and western areas of Texas, encompasses nearly 93,000 square miles and an estimated population of 7.6 million people. The district includes three of the five largest cities in Texas—San Antonio, Austin and El Paso—and shares 660 miles of common border with the Republic of Mexico.

These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

Indictments and criminal complaints are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

TRAFFIC ALERT- I-2 Closure in Donna, June 23-27

A full closure of eastbound Interstate 2 (I-2) in Donna is planned Monday through Friday of this week, evenings and overnight, from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m., for pavement repairs. Image for illustration purposes
A full closure of eastbound Interstate 2 (I-2) in Donna is planned Monday through Friday of this week, evenings and overnight, from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m., for pavement repairs. Image for illustration purposes

DONNA – A full closure of eastbound Interstate 2 (I-2) in Donna is planned Monday through Friday of this week, evenings and overnight, from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m., for pavement repairs.

All eastbound travelers will be diverted to the frontage road at the Val Verde (FM 1423) exit ramp and will be allowed to re-enter I-2 near the Main Street on ramp.

The maintenance work will improve the ride quality at the interstate overpass approaches and departures.

Information source: TxDOT

Real Lives, Real Losses of Drunk Driving

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Marcus Nalepa and his 8-year-old daughter Kelsey were on the way to her softball practice in League City when their lives changed forever. Image courtesy of TxDOT
Marcus Nalepa and his 8-year-old daughter Kelsey were on the way to her softball practice in League City when their lives changed forever. Image courtesy of TxDOT

AUSTIN – Marcus Nalepa and his 8-year-old daughter Kelsey were on the way to her softball practice in League City when their lives changed forever.

Just feet from Kelsey’s elementary school, a drunk driver slammed into the family car at a stop light. Kelsey suffered brain injuries and died two days later. 

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is sharing Kelsey’s story to remind Texans that every life on the road is a friend, a family member and a neighbor who deserves the same respect we would show them in person.

Image courtesy of TxDOT

A family’s plea

“It’s not hard to make arrangements ahead of time,” said Nicole Nalepa, Kelsey’s mother. “There are so many other alternatives to help prevent a tragedy—like the one that happened to my family—from happening to yours.”

TxDOT put a sign near the site where Kelsey died that reads, “Please don’t drink and drive. In honor of Kelsey Nalepa who was killed in 2017.” The family continues to plead with Texans not to drink and drive and hopes the sign can make a difference.

“If that sign saves one family, it is well worth it in my opinion,” Marcus Nalepa said.

Despite the risk, some drivers still choose to drink

Most people know that drunk driving is dangerous, yet there were more than 1,000 deaths in Texas from DUI/alcohol-related crashes in 2024. That means three Texans were lost every day because a driver ignored the risks.

“Making the choice to drive drunk instead of finding a sober ride home can and does lead to serious consequences,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “No one wants to live the rest of their life knowing they caused the death of another person on the road, and no one is impervious to the dangers of driving impaired.”

TxDOT’s Drive Sober. No Regrets. campaign and the traveling Faces of Drunk Driving video exhibit will showcase first-person testimonials from drunk-driving offenders and survivors. These emotional stories demonstrate the real, tangible consequences associated with drunk driving and remind Texans that every choice on the road can impact friends, families and neighbors.

Increased law enforcement period

Timed with the official start of summer and the Fourth of July weekend, TxDOT’s Drive Sober. No Regrets. campaign is aligned with an increased law enforcement effort to keep Texas roads safe. From June 26 through July 13, officers will be on a heightened lookout for drunk drivers to reduce DUI crashes, injuries and fatalities across the state.     

Drive Sober. No Regrets. is an important part of TxDOT’s Drive like a Texan: Kind. Courteous. Safe. initiative. Drive like a Texan is about embracing the pride, camaraderie and responsibility of being a Texan on the road. By making thoughtful choices, we can all help keep each other safe. Learn more at DriveLikeATexan.com.

Increased law enforcement period 

Timed with the official start of summer and the Fourth of July weekend, TxDOT’s Drive Sober. No Regrets. campaign is aligned with an increased law enforcement effort to keep Texas roads safe. From June 26 through July 13, officers will be on a heightened lookout for drunk drivers to reduce DUI crashes, injuries, and fatalities across the state. 

Natasha del Barrio’s People-First Leadership Propels Bert Ogden to National Recognition

Natasha del Barrio. Image by Noah M. González
Natasha del Barrio. Image by Noah H. Mangum Gonzalez

By Roberto Hugo González

Bert Ogden Auto Group’s Buick-GMC dealership has earned one of the highest honors in the automotive industry: being named 2024 Dealer of the Year by both the Buick and GMC divisions of General Motors. It’s a rare distinction—only two dealerships in Texas received both awards—and it places the Rio Grande Valley-based group in an elite category among more than 2,000 dealerships nationwide.

For CEO Natasha del Barrio, recognition is not just about performance metrics but also about honoring the people and community that have helped shape the organization over decades.

“It really is a testament to all of the support that the community has given this dealership and this dealer group over the last 50 years,” said del Barrio. “We definitely want to make the Rio Grande Valley proud, and this is one way that we do it. We’ve got the most amazing team. They work so hard—not everyone can do what they do. And they are good-hearted people. They care about our customers, deserve to see their name in lights, and have this moment of recognition.”

But del Barrio emphasizes that the dealership’s performance is grounded in values, not just volume. The culture is rooted in integrity, care, and personal connection.

“Our people are not just numbers. We don’t manage strictly by the numbers,” she explained. “We really try to build personal connections with all of our team members. I think that’s what makes them feel valued and seen and want to come in and give their very best.”

And how do you think this recognition reflects the leadership and legacy of Mr. and Mrs. Vackar?

The dealership’s legacy traces back to its founders, Robert C. Vackar, Chairman of the Board & Chief Performance Officer, and Janet Ogden Vackar, Co-Chairwoman & President of Marketing. The couple launched the business with a single Buick-GMC store, selling just 36 vehicles in its first month. Today, their vision has grown into the largest family-owned auto group in the Rio Grande Valley.

Del Barrio credits their leadership for instilling a culture of excellence that endures. “If you know Mr. and Mrs. Vackar personally, you know how much they care about people. They care about young people. They care about education. They care about their team members. They’re always recognizing them and acknowledging them,” she said. “But Mr. Vackar pushes us hard too—he’s driven for results. And so, I really think that this shows the same excellence that they carry themselves with every day.”

That philosophy is summed up in the company’s motto: “grace and grit.” As del Barrio explained, “The word grace represents Mrs. Vackar, and the word grit represents Mr. Vackar. But they carry themselves with the utmost integrity, professionalism, and dedication every day.”

What’s next for the Bert Ogden Auto Group following this milestone?

With continued growth and momentum, expansion is on the horizon. “We’re talking about a brand-new big dealership for these guys as soon as we can get them one,” del Barrio said, hinting at the next phase of the group’s development.

In addition to expanding, the company aims to climb even higher in industry rankings. In 2023, Bert Ogden Auto Group was ranked #49 in Automotive News’ Top 150 Dealers to Work For, reflecting its reputation as a top seller and employer. The goal now is to break into the Top 25.

The Dealer of the Year award is a symbol of success—but more importantly, it’s a validation of a people-first business model. “This recognition isn’t just for me—it’s for this team,” del Barrio said at the recent celebration. “Your talent, commitment, and passion make this team so special. Year after year, you accomplish what very few dealerships can.”

See related stories:

DPS Captures Honduran Man Wanted for Attempted Murder During Traffic Stop in Del Rio

he Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) captured a criminal illegal immigrant wanted out of Colorado for various violent offenses—including attempted murder—during an Operation Lone Star traffic stop in Maverick Co. Photo: Texas DPS
he Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) captured a criminal illegal immigrant wanted out of Colorado for various violent offenses—including attempted murder—during an Operation Lone Star traffic stop in Maverick Co. Photo: Texas DPS

DEL RIO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) captured a criminal illegal immigrant wanted out of Colorado for various violent offenses—including attempted murder—during an Operation Lone Star traffic stop in Maverick Co.

On Thursday, June 19, 2025, just after 9:30 p.m., a DPS Trooper stopped a white Toyota RAV4 SUV on US-57 in Eagle Pass for a traffic violation. During the stop, the Trooper learned that the driver was smuggling an illegal immigrant. With assistance from Border Patrol, the illegal immigrant was identified as Juan Carlos Rivera Garcia, 42, of Honduras.

Through further investigation, the Trooper determined that Rivera Garcia was wanted out of Arapahoe Co., Colo., for attempted murder, domestic assault causing serious bodily injury with a deadly weapon and child abuse knowingly or recklessly causing bodily injury. Rivera Garcia also had numerous apprehensions in Denver, Colo., for illegal entry between 2011 and 2018. He had been removed from the country in 2018.

Rivera Garcia was arrested and booked into the Maverick Co. Jail. The driver, Henry Salazar, 34, of Austin, Texas, was arrested and charged with smuggling of persons and booked into the Val Verde Processing Center.

Video from this incident is available here. 

###(DPS – South Texas Region)

Congressman Gonzalez Calls on President Trump to Save the American Workforce 

This comes as the administration’s mass deportation agenda has disproportionately hurt many businesses, including the agriculture, construction, and hospitality sectors. Image for illustration purposes
This comes as the administration’s mass deportation agenda has disproportionately hurt many businesses, including the agriculture, construction, and hospitality sectors. Image for illustration purposes

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34) announced that he has called on President Trump to save the American workforce by sending a letter urging executive action to help struggling businesses in South Texas and across the U.S.  

This comes as the administration’s mass deportation agenda has disproportionately hurt many businesses, including the agriculture, construction, and hospitality sectors.

The letter reads, “Like you, I am a strong supporter of legal migration and the apprehension of criminals, which is why I voted in support of legislation like the Laken Riley Act. However, American businesses are being harmed by what you described as a “…very aggressive policy…” This country is heavily reliant on an undocumented workforce in industries like construction, agriculture, and hospitality. That is why I urge you to protect American businesses and issue an executive order that would allow small business to sponsor undocumented migrants who have been in the country for three years and have no criminal record. This executive order would provide migrants temporary lawful status on a yearly basis and allow them to continue working without fear of deportation.”

Currently, the Trump Administration’s mass deportation policies could lead to the removal of an estimated:  
1.5 million workers from the construction workforce 
1 million workers in the hospitality industry 
870,400 workers in the manufacturing industry 
500,800 workers in general services 
460,500 workers in transportation and warehousing 
224,700 workers from the agriculture industry 

Read the full letter here. 

Cornyn Lauds Pres. Trump’s Approval of Eagle Pass Bridge Expansion Permit

U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) applauded President Trump’s approval of the City of Eagle Pass permit application to expand the Camino Real International Bridge Land Port of Entry (POE). Image: Wbaron at en.wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Senator John Cornyn

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) applauded President Trump’s approval of the City of Eagle Pass permit application to expand the Camino Real International Bridge Land Port of Entry (POE) located along the U.S.-Mexico border, which authorizes the addition of a six-lane bridge span adjacent to the existing bridge and increases the POE’s capacity for vehicular and pedestrian crossings:

“I am pleased President Trump has authorized the expansion of the Camino Real International Bridge in Eagle Pass, which will help modernize the bridge’s infrastructure and ultimately increase the port’s capacity,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This approval is great news for South Texas, and I was proud to support this effort and thank the Trump administration for prioritizing critical improvement projects at our nation’s ports of entry.”

Background:

Sen. Cornyn has supported this project across two administrations. Last year, Sen. Cornyn sent a letter to President Biden expressing his strong support for the City of Eagle Pass’ application for a presidential permit to expand and continue to operate the vehicular and pedestrian crossing at the Camino Real International Bridge Land Port of Entry. The Senator’s letter can be found here. He has continued to push for the project’s approval during the Trump administration.

Information source: Office of Senator Cornyn