Special to the NEWS
On January 31, 2026, Detectives with the San Benito Police Department (SBPD) Criminal Investigations Division and Special Investigations Division, in conjunction with Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code Agents, conducted a criminal investigation of the 7 Leguas Bar & Restaurant at 236 West Robertson Street in San Benito.
An investigation was initiated after complaints of alleged illegal narcotics distribution and other criminal activities occurring at the location were reported to police, according to an SBPD statement.
As a result of this operation, Adelaida Alvarez, Jose Lerma (bar owner), and Alfredo Lerma (brother of said bar owner) were arrested for the following offenses: Adelaida Alvarez – Possession of Controlled Substance, PG 1 (State Jail Felony); Jose Lerma – Cancellation or Suspect of Alcoholic Permit (Misdemeanor), Resisting Arrest / Search / Transportation (Class A Misdemeanor).
Alfredo Lerma was arrested for Manufacture, Delivery of Controlled Substance in PG1 (State Jail Felony), Resisting Arrest / Search / Transportation (Class A Misdemeanor), according to the SBPD.
“Really? Check all the bars,” wrote Beckie Ann Gomez Benavides, replying to the SBPD’s Facebook post announcing the bust.
Prince Mclaughlin seconded Benavides’ sentiments. “Serval bars do it in San Benito. Nothing new,” he posted.
“That area has always been an eyesore. Sad San Benito, as a whole, has fallen deeper into despair,” commented Richard C. Tamez.
“If you would like to report crime anonymously, you can do so by using our P3 Tips Reporting Application by clicking the link here https://www.p3tips.com,” the police department’s statement concluded.
All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.