Three West Texas residents will serve a combined 36 years in federal prison after a multi-agency drug investigation uncovered a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy in Crane County.
The year-long operation began in July 2024 and resulted in federal conspiracy convictions for David Villegas of Crane, who received 212 months (approximately 18 years), Leah Mueller of Midland, who got 151 months (approximately 12.5 years), and Ismael Sosa-Saenz of Midland, who was sentenced to 71 months (approximately 6 years).
The convictions represent a significant blow to methamphetamine trafficking in the oil-rich Permian Basin region. West Texas has seen increased drug activity as cartels exploit transportation corridors and the transient workforce.
The Texas Department of Public Safety’s Criminal Investigations Division led the operation with support from Homeland Security Investigations offices in Midland and Alpine. Local agencies, including the Crane County Sheriff’s Office and Crane Police Department, also participated.
All three defendants were convicted of federal conspiracy charges related to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the cases.
Authorities emphasized that the investigation showcased effective partnerships between federal, state, and local law enforcement. DPS officials encouraged residents to report suspicious activity through the iWatch Texas program via mobile app, online at www.iwatchtx.org, or by calling 1-844-643-2251.
“All reports are confidential,” the agency noted in its announcement.
