Jonathan Lumbreras, the co-owner of Pollos Asados “El Gordo,” is currently facing drug-related charges after being caught arranging cocaine deliveries with an FBI agent posing as a buyer. This shocking revelation comes from an indictment that was recently filed.

The charges against Lumbreras include conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. This information was detailed in the indictment.

An arrest warrant affidavit reveals that Lumbreras was communicating with an FBI agent through an application called “Threema,” believing the agent to be a genuine buyer. The two exchanged messages and even had phone conversations.

On July 9, 2024, the FBI agent contacted Lumbreras to set up a deal for two kilograms of cocaine. The affidavit states that after multiple messages and a phone call, they agreed on a delivery location at a McDonald’s in San Antonio.

Prior to this, FBI agents had arranged two separate cocaine purchases with Lumbreras at the same McDonald’s location. During these transactions, Lumbreras had sent an accomplice to deliver approximately half a kilogram of cocaine each time.

Following a phone conversation, FBI agents observed Lumbreras’ accomplice meeting with a man named Edward Smith, suspected to be involved in distributing the cocaine. Smith was found carrying a package containing 1,195.7 grams of cocaine, along with 40 smaller packages of suspected cocaine.

Fortunately, Smith was stopped by the Texas Department of Transportation before he could complete the delivery, and the drugs were seized. According to the indictment, if found guilty, Lumbreras could face anywhere from five to 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $5 million.

An attorney representing Lumbreras has stated that his client is innocent and they have not seen any of the government’s evidence against him.