Bakersfield Man Sentenced to More Than 21 Years for Meth Trafficking, Gun Offense

A Bakersfield man was sentenced Monday to more than 21 years in federal prison for drug trafficking and firearm offenses, authorities said.

David Garcia, 39, received a sentence of 21 years and 10 months from Chief U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley after being convicted of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.

According to court documents, Garcia was stopped by law enforcement officers on Oct. 17, 2022, for traffic violations. He was the driver and sole occupant of the SUV and had an active parole warrant for his arrest.

Authorities said a search of the vehicle uncovered a stolen Glock 29 semi-automatic handgun loaded with eight rounds. Garcia is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition due to a prior felony conviction for robbery in 2016.

Investigators also found a black backpack on the front passenger seat containing 343.5 grams of methamphetamine, 11.2 grams of cocaine and 8.5 grams of a mixture of cocaine and methamphetamine. Officers also discovered three digital scales and a box of sandwich bags.

Garcia’s criminal history spans approximately 20 years, and he is a documented former member of the Varrio Fillmore Trece Sureño criminal street gang, according to authorities.

Garcia pleaded guilty on Feb. 24, 2025.

The case was investigated by the Bakersfield Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

—

Connect with Anthony W. Haddad on social media. Got a tip? Send an email. 

The post Bakersfield Man Sentenced to More Than 21 Years for Meth Trafficking, Gun Offense appeared first on GV Wire.