The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington has continued to prosecute major criminal cases despite the ongoing government shutdown, according to a statement from U.S. Attorney Pete Serrano. The office remains focused on addressing threats to community safety related to transnational drug trafficking, violent crimes, and firearms offenses.
One case involved Joshua Isaac Stine of Moses Lake, who was sentenced on November 13, 2025, by Chief District Court Judge Stanley Bastain to an additional 10 years in prison for distributing fentanyl while already serving a federal sentence. Evidence showed that Stine used contraband cell phones from within FCI Forrest City in Arkansas to facilitate drug distribution as part of the “La Nuestra Familia” organization. This marks his third federal conviction since 2000.
In Spokane, James Anthony Stinson was convicted after a three-day jury trial on eleven felony counts including sex trafficking, drug trafficking, and unlawful possession of firearms. Authorities began investigating Stinson in 2021 following controlled purchases of crack cocaine from his hotel room. Law enforcement recovered methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl pills, multiple firearms, and evidence linked to sex trafficking during searches. Digital evidence revealed videos and messages showing Stinson using violence and coercion against victims.
Another significant case involved Israel Garcia, a Mexican national unlawfully present in the United States. On September 18, 2025, Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastain sentenced Garcia to 20 years in prison for discharging a firearm at Spokane police officers during a drug trafficking crime and possessing more than 400 grams of fentanyl with intent to distribute. Garcia had previously been deported but returned illegally and resumed drug activities before opening fire on officers during an attempted arrest.
Loyal Otis Dickson III of Clarkston received a 15-year federal prison sentence for firearm and drug trafficking charges after law enforcement found approximately two pounds of methamphetamine and several firearms at his residence in November 2024. Among the weapons was an unmarked AR-style rifle consistent with so-called “ghost guns.” Dickson fled into Idaho before being apprehended following his indictment.
In Yakima, Allicianna Lynnzie Clark was sentenced on October 9, 2025, by United States District Judge Rebecca L. Pennell to over twelve years in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine while armed with a firearm. Police arrested Clark after she fled from a traffic stop; they found her nearby with methamphetamine, fentanyl, and a loaded pistol.
Also in Yakima, Susen Ann Gorst was sentenced on October 21, 2025 by Chief Judge Bastian to nearly five years’ imprisonment following repeated probation violations stemming from an earlier conviction for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Gorst failed multiple conditions of her probation including missing appointments with her probation officer and using controlled substances while under supervision.
“These cases demonstrate our commitment—regardless of external circumstances—to pursue those who threaten public safety through serious criminal conduct,” said U.S. Attorney Pete Serrano.
