An El Paso couple has been handed a combined sentence of 25 years in federal prison for their roles in methamphetamine trafficking and firearms offenses, as reported by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas. Carlos Morales, 41, and his wife, Rebekah Sue Morales, 55, were arrested following an FBI surveillance operation that eventually led to the discovery of illegal substances and firearms in their possession.
During the operation on March 5, 2024, authorities initiated a traffic stop and found two handguns in a backpack that belonged to Carlos, a previously convicted felon. A search warrant executed at the Morales' residency unearthed more firearms, ammunition and methamphetamine. The couple later confessed their involvement in the drug trade, with Carlos pleading guilty to felon in possession of a firearm and Rebekah admitting to a conspiracy count related to distributing methamphetamine.
Their sentencing was presided over by U.S. District Judge Leon Schydlower, who, according to the announcement from Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman, imposed the statutory maximum of 15 years on Carlos Morales for his firearm offense. Rebekah Sue Morales received a 10-year sentence for her part. "The court ordered the forfeiture of the defendant’s residence, as well as the forfeiture of multiple firearms, all used to facilitate the commission of their crimes," as stated by the U.S. Department of Justice.
The investigation leading up to their arrest and eventual sentencing was conducted by the FBI with collaboration from various agencies including the U.S. Border Patrol, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, and the El Paso County Constables. Assistant U.S. Attorney Susanna Martinez was credited with prosecuting the case.
