Former Hidalgo County Detention Officer Charged in Narcotics Smuggling Case

Staff Report

EDINBURG, TX – A former Hidalgo County detention officer has been arrested and charged in connection with an alleged scheme to smuggle illegal drugs into the county jail, investigators announced Tuesday.

Ronaldo Rodriguez, a former employee at the detention facility, was charged with prohibited substances and items in a correctional or civil commitment facility, a third-degree felony, and engaging in organized criminal activity, a second-degree felony. His bond was set at $2,500 on each charge.

According to the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office, a weeks-long investigation alleges Rodriguez conspired with an inmate and outside accomplices to introduce narcotics into the facility.

Sheriff J.E. “Eddie” Guerra said the department is committed to accountability. “We take these allegations seriously and I am committed to preserving the public’s confidence and trust in the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office,” Guerra said. “We will continue to investigate any and all allegations of employee misconduct, and will take the necessary and appropriate actions to maintain accountability and transparency.”

The investigation remains ongoing. Authorities are encouraging anyone with information to contact the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office at 956-383-8114. Anonymous tips can also be made through the Crime Stoppers hotline at 956-668-8477 or the “P3 TIPS” smartphone app.

Source — Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office.