South Bend Man Sentenced To Twelve Years In Federal Prison For Narcotics Distribution And Firearm Possession

Aguila Binion was sentenced to 144 months in federal prison for cocaine distribution and illegal firearm possession after being found asleep in his car.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 20, 2026, 1:36 PM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from ABC 57

Federal Court Imposes Lengthy Sentence For Armed Drug Trafficking

A federal judge has handed down a twelve year prison term to a South Bend resident following a comprehensive narcotics and firearms investigation. Aguila Binion was sentenced on March 18 after a jury determined he was guilty of maintaining an illicit drug business while armed. According to United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred, the conviction underscores a commitment to removing repeat offenders from the community, specifically those who combine the distribution of controlled substances with the illegal possession of weaponry.

Incriminating Evidence Found During Welfare Check On Running Vehicle

The legal case against Binion originated from a police encounter where officers discovered him asleep behind the wheel of a running automobile. Upon investigation, authorities found a bag of cocaine and more than $1,500 in cash directly on his person. The interior of the car was further outfitted for a professional distribution operation, containing digital scales, boxes of plastic packaging, and several baggies of cocaine that had already been pre-packaged for individual sale.

Strategic Positioning Of Loaded Firearm Within Reach

Of particular concern to federal prosecutors was the presence of a fully loaded pistol located in the backseat, within arm's reach of the driver's seat. This discovery led to the additional charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm, as Binion was legally prohibited from owning the weapon. Law enforcement officials noted that the proximity of the loaded gun to the narcotics suggested it was intended to protect his illegal inventory and cash proceeds during transactions.