OKLAHOMA CITY — This is an official press release from the U.S. Department of Justice (USAO - Oklahoma, Western), published as received.
OKLAHOMA CITY – JOSE CARLOS MORALES-GUTIERREZ, 31, a Mexican national who 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 public is reminded that this charge is merely an allegation, and that Morales-Gutierrez is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is the result of an investigation by OHP and the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bow Bottomly is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Reference is made to public filings for additional information.
