Illegal alien sentenced after tossing kilos of meth out car window during pursuit

McALLEN, Texas - A 27-year-old repeat felon from Mexico who unlawfully resided in Rio Grande City has been ordered to federal prison for possession with intent to distribute three kilograms of meth, announced Acting U.S. Attorney John G.E. Marck.

Victor Manuel Gaytan pleaded guilty April 2.

U.S. District Judge Fernando Rodriguez Jr. has now ordered Gaytan to serve 235 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment.

At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that Gaytan is already a three-time felon with prior convictions for possession of a controlled substance and alien smuggling and has served sentences in both state and federal prison. In handing down the sentence, Judge Rodriguez noted the significant amount of narcotics involved in the crime and Gaytan's dangerousness to the community.

On Nov. 4, 2025, law enforcement attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a Chevrolet Impala that Gaytan was driving. He slowed down, appearing to pull over, but then immediately accelerated which resulted in a vehicle pursuit.

Authorities observed a bag thrown from the passenger window and continued the pursuit until Gaytan eventually stopped and surrendered.

The bag was found to contain three kilograms of meth.

At the plea, Gaytan later admitted possession of the bag of meth and that he tried to get rid of it before being apprehended.

He has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of Palmview Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura Garcia prosecuted the case.