Valenzuela nabbed again on auto parts theft, drug charges

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A months-long investigation into the theft of auto parts and distribution of illegal narcotics led to the arrest of a habitual offender in Pearsall last week.

Frio County deputies launched an investigation into the alleged sales of narcotics at a residence on East Nueces Street after a number of calls were received regarding stop-and-go traffic, which they describe as indicative of drug sales.

Investigating deputies and Pct. 4 Constable John Anthony Rodriguez learned that 46-year-old Ephraim Valenzuela was allegedly storing stolen auto parts in the home.

“Upon receiving the information, we quickly opened an investigation,” Frio County Sheriff Peter Salinas said. “We acted on the tip immediately in an attempt to recover the stolen property and put an end to the distribution of narcotics by this drug dealer.”

According to the report filed at the sheriff’s office, the investigation revealed that Valenzuela was distributing narcotics.

Deputies and Constable Rodriguez executed a search warrant shortly before 3 p.m. Thursday, September 25, and found Valenzuela in the residence with his elderly mother and two other occupants.

During a search of the home, deputies discovered over 20 grams of methamphetamine, cocaine and a loaded firearm in the suspect’s mother’s room. A further search revealed additional narcotics in two other bedrooms.

The report indicates a total of 30 grams of methamphetamine, 3 grams of cocaine and six grams of marijuana were found in the east-side home.

Valenzuela was transported to the Frio County Jail without further incident and faces charges of second-degree felony manufacture and delivery of cocaine, first-degree felony manufacture and delivery of methamphetamine, and felony possession of a firearm by a felon.

“Any time the community shares information on criminal activity it is imperative that we move on it as quickly as possible,” the sheriff said. “In this case a substantial amount of illegal drugs, a firearm, and a wanted felon are all off the streets thanks to our community members stepping up and partnering with deputies.”

Valenzuela’s criminal history includes an arrest in June on a third-degree felony drug possession charge after an investigation into a theft ring revealed him in possession of methamphetamine.