Pasco Man Caught With 25 Pounds of Methamphetamine Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison

Yakima, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter announced that Jesus Birrueta-Mendoza, age 27, a citizen of Mexico residing in Pasco, Washington, was sentenced on charges of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. Birrueta-Mendoza pleaded guilty to those charges on February 18, 2025. Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian sentenced Birrueta-Mendoza to 10 years in prison to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.

According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on January 18, 2024, Birrueta-Mendoza was engaged in ongoing negotiations to sell upwards of 50 pounds of methamphetamine. On the day of the intended transaction, Birrueta-Mendoza was arrested by agents of the Department of Homeland Security and found to be in possession of 25 pounds of methamphetamine at a location in Sunnyside, Washington. Birrueta-Mendoza was unlawfully present in the United States when he committed this serious federal offense after being removed by authorities 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.” stated 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.”

“HSI remains committed to combating transnational criminal organizations that import and distribute narcotics in our communities,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Seattle Acting Special Agent in Charge Colin Jackson. “HSI will continue to ensure that individuals like Mr. Birrueta-Mendoza, who attempt to distribute narcotics in the Pacific Northwest, are held accountable.”

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael D. Murphy. 

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