IDAHO FALLS MEN CONVICTED IN METHAMPHETAMINE TRAFFICKING CASE

A federal jury in Pocatello yesterday convicted two Idaho Falls men of trafficking methamphetamine. The 5-day trial started Tuesday, January 8.

Defendants Jose Ruiz-Barosso, 29, and Antonio Arredondo-Delgado, 26, were convicted of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and distribution of methamphetamine. They face a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years and a maximum of life on the conspiracy charge, and a maximum of 20 years on the distribution count. Sentencing is set for March 20.

Defendants Fernando Palacios, 30, and William Segura, 20, both of Idaho Falls, earlier pled guilty to distribution of methamphetamine. They are scheduled to be sentenced March 3. Defendant Maria Eugenia Sanchez, 26, of Idaho Falls, has agreed to plead guilty to possession of methamphetamine in state court.

The ring was broken up after a confidential informant made numerous purchases of methamphetamine from Ruiz-Barosso, also known as "Machine," and others, in Bonneville County, between January and March, 2007. The confidential informant paid approximately $1000 per ounce and bought the drugs in one- or two-ounce quantities. Buys were arranged and made at the defendants' homes, at the Country Corner, and in the Wal-Mart parking lot. On three occasions, baby diapers were used to conceal the methamphetamine.

The investigation was handled by the Bonneville County Drug Task Force.