Houston Man Pleads Guilty to Violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act

According to the court records, ZEPEDA conspired to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute a kilogram or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of heroin and five kilograms or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine.  ZEPEDA admitted to being captured on recorded calls as part of a lengthy Title III wire intercept. 

Sentencing is scheduled for September 28, 2021.  ZEPEDA faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of at least ten years up to a maximum of life, a fine of $10,000,000, at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment.

This case was investigated by Special Agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller.