News Release [printer-friendly version]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 04, 2009
For Information Contact,
Special Agent Ramona Sanchez
Public Information Officer
(602) 664-5725

Methamphetamine Dealer Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal Prison

MAR 04--PHOENIX – Martin Mercado-Zavala, 38, of Guassave, Sinaloa, Mexico, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Roslyn O. Silver to nine years in federal prison.  Mercado-Zavala pleaded guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.

On October 1, 2008, Special Agents and Task Force Officers with the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted an investigation into Mercado-Zavala, who was believed to be a narcotics dealer in Phoenix. After Phoenix Police Officers conducted a traffic stop on Mercado-Zavala, DEA agents subsequently discovered 1.47 pounds of methamphetamine, 99.4% purity, sitting on the front passenger floorboard of the car. Mercado-Zavala admitted that he had obtained the methamphetamine from a supplier and intended to sell the methamphetamine for profit.    

The investigation in this case was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Phoenix Police Department. The prosecution was handled by Jonell L. Lucca, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.

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