An investigation into an alleged cocaine trafficking network operating out of Alice, Texas, resulted in 19 people facing federal conspiracy charges. The defendants are accused of conspiring to distribute more than 5 kilograms of powder cocaine and more than 280 grams of crack cocaine, according to federal court filings. During the execution of 11 search warrants, agents seized more than 35 firearms, thousands of rounds of ammunition, cocaine, crack cocaine, drug ledgers, digital scales covered with residue, and nearly $100,000 in cash.
A DEA-led Homeland Security Task Force investigation, conducted in coordination with the Jim Wells County Sheriff's Office, led to the 19 arrests, according to a post from DEA Houston
on social media.
KIII-TV
The weapons and cash were among the items seized in the raid.
From Street Dealers to a Single Target
Members of the organization allegedly pooled money to buy cocaine from suppliers, including sources in Mexico, before distributing it in Alice. The defendants include David Villagran Sr., known as “Big Tinko”; David Villagran Jr., known as “Little Tinko”; Rene Villagran, known as “Chucho”; Joel Sanchez; and Jose Romeo Sanchez, known as “Baby Joe.”
The joint investigation began in June 2025. September raids targeted the Villagran-Sanchez organization.
Rancho Alegre at the Center of the Network
The alleged trafficking network was linked to Alice and Rancho Alegre. A federal grand jury returned a sealed indictment on Sept. 9, 2026. On Sept. 22, multi-agency law enforcement teams carried out an early-morning raid using helicopters.
On Sept. 30, a raid in Rancho Alegre led to two arrests and the seizure of cocaine, cash, and a firearm with a switch.
What Defendants Could Face in Federal Court
Under 21 U.S.C. § 841(b)(1)(A), a federal conviction for conspiracy to distribute more than 5 kilograms of cocaine or 280 grams of crack carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 10 years up to life, along with fines that can reach $10 million, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. That statutory framework means the defendants could face sentences ranging from 10 years to life.
