FBI, DEA and local law enforcement team up to dismantle Central Texas drug ring resulting in multiple federal indictments

Waco, Texas – A total of 20 individuals were arrested in Waco on Friday following a sweeping federal investigation into a drug trafficking conspiracy that had allegedly been operating since April 2024. The coordinated arrests came after a federal grand jury handed down indictments on serious drug-related charges, with several defendants facing potential life sentences if convicted.

Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas announced the arrests, noting that the operation involved the trafficking of large quantities of methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine throughout the region.

Ten defendants were indicted for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute at least 500 grams of methamphetamine. They each face a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison if convicted. The defendants named in the methamphetamine conspiracy include

• Osvaldo Vences

• Brenda Lou Brasher

• Juan Delgado

• Anthony Mark Fimple

• Brian Quinn Knox

• Ronald Vincent Rodriguez, Jr.

• James Holland Young

• Tandy Jay Day

• William Brett Lafferty

• Michael Earl McDonald

In addition, 11 people face charges of conspiracy to distribute at least 1 kilogram of heroin. This offense also carries a minimum of 10 years in prison, with the potential for a life sentence. The defendants charged in the heroin conspiracy include

• Arthur Lee Pimpton

• Quincy Shun Cook

• Osvaldo Vences

• Reginald Dewayne Bible

• Reginald Vernard Branch

• Deordrick Derrion Brown

• Direshia Marie McDaniel

• Reginald Lionel Thornton

• Kevin Eugene Hubby

• Rockelle Lashan Parker

• Marvin Lydell Starks

Four individuals are also facing charges for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute at least 500 grams of cocaine. These charges carry a prison sentence ranging from five to 40 years. Those named in this part of the indictment are:

• Juan Delgado

• Anthony Mark Fimple

• Ronald Vincent Rodriguez, Jr.

• Fabian Angel Fabela

The case is being investigated by the FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Waco Police Department, and McLennan County Sheriff’s Office.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Smith-Burris is leading the prosecution in what authorities describe as a significant step forward in targeting organized drug distribution networks in Central Texas.

The arrests represent a broad law enforcement effort to curtail the spread of narcotics and hold those involved accountable.