Current, Former Texas Lawmen Charged With Cocaine Trafficking

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HOUSTON (AP) — Federal prosecutors say four current or former law enforcement officers are among 15 people charged in a cocaine trafficking conspiracy.

The indictment returned Wednesday in Houston charges all 15 with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine.

Each defendant also faces varying numbers of charges of possession with intent to distribute cocaine.

Prosecutors say current or former law enforcement officers charged include U.S. Border Patrol Agent Daniel Polanco and Edinburg police Officer Hector Beltran, who both surrendered Friday.

Former Houston police officer Marcos Esteban Carrion was already being held on unrelated charges. A former deputy constable from Houston was expected to appear in court next week.

Attorney information for them wasn't immediately known.

Each defendant faces up to life in federal prison.

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