OKLAHOMA CITY – An undocumented Mexican citizen is facing drug trafficking charges after being arrested earlier in March.
According to a press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western Disctrict of Oklahoma, Jose Carlos Morales-Gutierrez, 31, a Mexican national who authorities say is in the country illegally, has been charged with possession of 500 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.
According to the charging document, on March 11, 2026, an Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) trooper pulled over a red semi-truck with trailer in Custer County, Oklahoma. The driver, Morales-Gutierrez, did not have a valid driver’s license. During the traffic stop, a K9 unit alerted to the presence of narcotics in the trailer of the vehicle. Inside the trailer, law enforcement located a duffel bag containing more than 20 pounds of methamphetamine.
On March 17, 2026, Morales-Gutierrez was charged by Complaint with possession of 500 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. If found guilty, Morales-Gutierrez faces up to life in federal prison, and a fine of up to $10,000,000.
The case is still under investigation.
Bruce Guthrie is an award-winning journalist who has lived in three states including Arkansas, Missouri and Georgia. During his nearly 20-year career, Bruce has served as managing editor and sports editor for numerous publications. He and his wife, Dana, who is also a journalist, are based in Carrollton, Georgia.
