PHILADELPHIA, PA — Jose Alberto Cruz-Garcia, aged 31, from Las Pedras, Puerto Rico, faced sentencing Thursday in a high-profile drug smuggling case. U.S. District Court Judge Timothy J. Savage handed down a two-year prison sentence followed by three years of supervised release for his role in smuggling over four kilograms of cocaine into Philadelphia.
Cruz-Garcia’s journey began in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on July 21, 2023, where he boarded a commercial flight to Philadelphia. Upon arrival, Cruz-Garcia attempted to transfer the illicit drugs to his accomplice, Josue Benito Ascencio-Vega, at a motel near the airport. Federal authorities arrested both men during the exchange.
In May, Cruz-Garcia pleaded guilty to the charges. His codefendant, Ascencio-Vega, previously received a five-year prison sentence in July.
U.S. Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero issued a stern warning: “Whether you’re coming by plane, train, or automobile, if you bring a large quantity of illegal narcotics into the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, be prepared to lose more than your luggage.” She emphasized the commitment to removing dangerous drugs and criminals from the streets.
Acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia, Sara Bay, praised the collaboration between Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, stating, “Our partnership continues to provide incredible results for the citizens of Pennsylvania.”
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