Gavin Reyes Duenas Sentenced to Prison in Drug Trafficking Case

          SHAWN N. ANDERSON, United States Attorney for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, announced that defendant GAVIN REYES DUENAS, age 33, from Talofofo, was sentenced in the United States District Court of Guam to 87 months imprisonment for Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute Fifty Grams or More of Methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1).  The Court also ordered five years of supervised release following imprisonment, 100 hours of community service, and a mandatory $100 assessment fee.  In addition, defendants convicted of a federal drug offense may no longer qualify for certain federal benefits.

          On November 19, 2016, the U.S. Postal Inspector and the Drug Enforcement Administration intercepted two packages in the mail.  The packages were found to contain approximately 3,113.9 net grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride (“ice”).  Further investigation revealed that Duenas used his family’s post office box to receive the ice.  Once in his possession, Duenas intended to distribute the drug on island.  He also expected to receive some of the drug as payment from his supplier.  At the time of his arrest, Duenas possessed methamphetamine pipes, syringes, scales, Ziploc baggies and $43,335.00 in U.S. currency.  

          U.S. Attorney Anderson stated, “Federal law enforcement continues to aggressively pursue drug trafficking activity on Guam.  This case demonstrates the benefits of effective partnerships and the results of long term investigations.  Our office vigorously enforces federal drug laws at every opportunity.  We will also obtain the forfeiture of illegal proceeds whenever possible.  While our distance from the mainland is great, we will similarly seek any off island sources of supply and hold them accountable.” This case was the result of a joint investigation by the U.S. Postal Service and the Drug Enforcement Administration.  The case was prosecuted by Rosetta L. San Nicolas, an Assistant United States Attorney in the District of Guam.