Texas Mexican Mafia Sergeant Receives Federal Prison Term
David Cortez Jr. was sentenced to 250 months in federal prison for drug trafficking and firearm-related offenses.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Drug Crime
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A federal court in San Antonio sentenced David Cortez Jr., a sergeant in the Texas Mexican Mafia, to 250 months in prison. The sentencing follows an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration into narcotics operations.
Why it matters
The sentencing marks a significant development in a broader federal investigation into criminal activity and narcotics proceeds collection by the Texas Mexican Mafia. Authorities continue to prosecute members associated with the organization following a massive 2020 indictment.
David Cortez Jr. received a 250-month prison sentence following his 2020 arrest for heroin possession and firearm offenses. He was one of 12 individuals included in the original grand jury indictment.
The players
David Cortez Jr.
He served as a sergeant within the Texas Mexican Mafia and was prosecuted for drug trafficking and firearms charges.
Drug Enforcement Administration
This federal agency led the investigation into the narcotics proceeds collection efforts of the criminal organization.
Donald Trevino
A co-defendant in the case who was sentenced to 300 months in federal prison in 2022.
Rudy Arreola
A co-defendant in the same criminal case who is awaiting his scheduled sentencing date.
The details
Agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration seized methamphetamine shipments tied to the group before they could be distributed in the community. Cortez was apprehended in October 2020 while in possession of heroin and a loaded handgun.
Timeline
September 30, 2020: David Cortez Jr. was indicted by a grand jury.
October 2020: Agents arrested David Cortez Jr. in San Antonio.
October 2022: Co-defendant Donald Trevino received a 300-month sentence.
October 22, 2026: The court sentenced David Cortez Jr. to 250 months in prison.
December 10, 2026: Rudy Arreola is scheduled to be sentenced.
Legal Context
This sentencing aligns with the federal government's long-standing strategy of utilizing large-scale indictments to dismantle organized criminal hierarchies. These prosecutions mirror historical efforts to curb regional narcotics distribution through severe federal sentencing guidelines.
The removal of high-ranking organization members from the community aims to reduce the availability of illegal narcotics in San Antonio. Local residents may see continued federal law enforcement activity as the government finalizes remaining cases related to the 2020 indictment.
The takeaway
Severe federal sentencing serves as a primary tool for law enforcement in addressing the operations of organized criminal groups. Residents in the area remain impacted by these investigations as federal authorities work to dismantle local narcotics trafficking networks.
What happens next
Rudy Arreola is scheduled to appear in federal court for sentencing on December 10, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on ongoing efforts against illicit narcotics, visit the Drug Crime section.
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