Former County Commissioner Willie Gandara Jr. pleaded guilty to two federal drug charges that could put him in prison for 20 years per count and up to $1.5 million fine for both counts.

On Friday afternoon, Gandara went in front of U.S. District Judge Frank Montalvo at the United States Courthouse and pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess a controlled substance with intent to distribute and establishment of manufacturing operations.


Gandara's attorney, Joe Spencer, spoke with KFOX after the plea.


"He accepted responsibility for his actions," Spencer said. "Mr. Gandara pleaded guilty because he was guilty."

In February, federal agents arrested Gandara and another man, Juan Canales. Canales already pleaded guilty.

According to Spencer, Montalvo allowed Gandara to stay out on bond.

"This is a very valuable time for him 'til he has to do whatever punishment the judge thinks is in the best interest of society," Spencer said.

Gandara, 37, who was originally scheduled to give his plea July 26, resigned from his seat a few days after his arrest, when federal agents raided his home.

"He's very remorseful, he's very regretful," Spencer said. "It's an example that he set – a bad example. He's very ashamed for his conduct; he's told me that many, many times."

Gandara told KFOX that he could not make a public statement today.

Three other co-defendants are scheduled to plead guilty in the next couple of weeks.

If you have a story that you feel deserves media attention, contact Ric Dupont at ric.dupont@kfoxtv.com.