JURORS CONVICT EX-DRUG OFFICER

A former narcotics agent has been convicted on charges of tampering with
records, fabricating evidence and abusing his position.

Albert J. Villarreal, 33, faces up to 10 years on prison. He was acquitted
of 19 other charges.

Villarreal was a member of the 81st Judicial District Narcotics Task Force.

His attorney, John Longoria of San Antonio, said he will appeal.

Prosecutor Carrie Moy praised the Wilson County jury for finding Villarreal
guilty on the charges backed up by the most evidence, including phone
records and audiotapes.

"He fell so far off the line that he became what he was put in this county
to get rid of," said Moy, who recalled witness testimony that Villarreal
used and bought drugs.

The punishment phase of the trial begins Wednesday.