Feds say 24 arrested in West Texas cocaine ring

Posted: Jun 07, 2012 3:24 PM PDT Updated: Jun 07, 2012 3:24 PM PDT

FORT STOCKTON, Texas (AP) - Authorities say that 24 Fort Stockton residents have been arrested in connection with a cocaine distribution operation in West Texas.

United States Attorney Robert Pitman on Thursday said the group's alleged ringleader, 33-year-old Noe Torres Ortega, also known as "Prieto," was among those in custody.

A judge on Thursday unsealed a 27-count indictment the defendants were charged with in May.

The charges include conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine, distribution of a controlled substance in a school/playground zone, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance; using a phone in a felony drug offense and maintaining drug-involved premises.

The defendants range in age from 22 to 65. If convicted of drug conspiracy, each faces between ten years and life in federal prison.

Feds say 24 arrested in West Texas cocaine ring - Houston weather, traffic, news | FOX 26 | MyFoxHouston