This article contains AI-assisted content.

AI-generated imagePhoto byThe Bullet Point

Tampa, Florida – Hernan Cruz-Moreno, 24, of Earlimart, California, has pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges, including conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine following his apprehension at Tampa International Airport for transporting a large quantity of methamphetamine.

Key Points

• On May 2, 2023, Cruz-Moreno, along with Agustin Ortiz-Sanchez, 22, of Thermal, California, transported 60 kilograms of methamphetamine to Tampa International Airport from Los Angeles.
• The drugs were discovered by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents and officers from the Tampa International Airport Police Department in a secure area of the airport. A narcotics detection dog played a key role in identifying the drugs in the luggage.
• Following the discovery, Cruz-Moreno and Sanchez-Ortiz, who later retrieved the bags, were arrested.
• Cruz-Moreno revealed he was paid $2,000 to transport the luggage and was aware that it contained illegal items, though he claimed ignorance of the specific contents.
• He faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years, with a potential life sentence in federal prison. The date for sentencing is yet to be determined.
• Ortiz-Sanchez also pleaded guilty to the same offense in November 2023. His sentencing is scheduled for February 27, 2024.