A Pasco resident, Jesus Birrueta-Mendoza, 27, was sentenced to ten years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine. The sentencing took place in Yakima, Washington, and was announced by Acting United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter. Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian also ordered five years of supervised release following the prison term.
Birrueta-Mendoza pleaded guilty on February 18, 2025. Court documents show that he had been negotiating the sale of more than 50 pounds of methamphetamine when he was arrested on January 18, 2024. At the time of his arrest by Department of Homeland Security agents in Sunnyside, Washington, he had 25 pounds of methamphetamine in his possession. Authorities reported that Birrueta-Mendoza was unlawfully present in the United States and had previously been removed three times in 2018.
“Mr. Birrueta-Mendoza was engaged in drug trafficking after unlawfully returning to the United States. He intended to distribute a large amount of methamphetamine into our community without concern about its impact,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Van Marter. “This office remains committed to working with our federal, state and tribal partners to remove those offenders who pose such a threat. This sentence reflects the seriousness of his actions and my office’s commitment to hold drug distributors accountable.”
Colin Jackson, Acting Special Agent in Charge at ICE Homeland Security Investigations Seattle, commented: “HSI remains committed to combating transnational criminal organizations that import and distribute narcotics in our communities. HSI will continue to ensure that individuals like Mr. Birrueta-Mendoza, who attempt to distribute narcotics in the Pacific Northwest, are held accountable.”
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael D. Murphy.
