A Mexican national living illegally in Pasco, Washington, has been sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to trafficking a massive quantity of methamphetamine, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced Thursday.
Jesus Birrueta-Mendoza, 27, was sentenced for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. He will also serve five years of supervised release following his prison term. Birrueta-Mendoza pleaded guilty in February after being arrested on January 18, 2024, during a federal drug sting in Sunnyside, Washington.
Federal authorities from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) found 25 pounds of meth at the scene. Birrueta-Mendoza had been negotiating the sale of more than 50 pounds of methamphetamine at the time of his arrest.
Officials confirmed Birrueta-Mendoza had been previously removed from the United States three times in 2018 and was unlawfully present in the country when he was caught trafficking drugs.
“Mr. Birrueta-Mendoza was engaged in drug trafficking after unlawfully returning to the United States,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Stephanie Van Marter. “He intended to distribute a large amount of methamphetamine into our community without concern about its impact.”
Colin Jackson, Acting Special Agent in Charge for HSI Seattle, emphasized the agency’s priority of taking down drug trafficking networks. “We will continue to ensure that individuals like Mr. Birrueta-Mendoza are held accountable,” Jackson stated.
The case was led by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Murphy. The sentencing highlights the ongoing concern over illegal reentry and drug trafficking by previously deported individuals.
