Authorities Seize $1.15 Million in Suspected Drug Money

NACOGDOCHES — The Nacogdoches County Sheriff’s Office announced Thursday the seizure of more than $1 million in suspected drug money. KETK reports deputies stopped an SUV October 10 for speeding on Loop 224 at Old Tyler Road South. Officials say the driver and lone occupant was nervous and gave conflicting statements about his trip. During the stop, deputies became suspicious of criminal activity. Deputies searched the SUV and discovered about $1.1 million tucked away in three duffel bags in the cargo area. The sheriff’s office says the suspect denied the money belonged to him but confirmed the money was from drug cartel activity.

Deputies detained the suspect for further questioning about the money, and he was taken to the sheriff’s office. Investigators counted the money and say it totaled $1,150,650. Ricardo Avalos-Victor, 30, of Georgia, was arrested and charged with money laundering and regulation of money services businesses. Bond was set at $2,205,000. A member of the DA’s Office worked with law enforcement to prepare paperwork necessary to file a civil forfeiture action against the money. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has also expressed an interest in adopting the criminal charges against the defendant.

Officials say concern for the physical safety of the defendant’s family prompted a request from law enforcement to seal the civil forfeiture case from public access. An order sealing the case was signed, allowing the defendant’s family time to take what were termed appropriate measures to ensure their safety. The order expired on Wednesday.

The district attorney’s Office worked with an attorney representing the defendant over a couple of weeks. The defendant maintained his position the seized money was not his, so an agreed judgment was ultimately signed. The defendant released any claim to the money and agreed it was contraband, so the money was awarded to the sheriff’s and DA’s offices. Officials say the money will be used to further strengthen law enforcement activities, equipment and prosecution in the county.