GREENSBORO, N.C. – On July 10, 2026, Jonathan Mastache Juarez was sentenced to 156 months in prison for possessing with intent to distribute 1.7 kilograms of 98% pure methamphetamine in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B). Mastache Juarez, age 39, of Sanford, North Carolina, appeared before Chief Judge William L. Osteen and was also sentenced to 4 years of supervised release following his prison term. Mastache Juarez was charged by federal indictment in August 2025 and pled guilty in February 2026.Dan Bishop, United States Attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina, made the announcement and thanked Homeland Security Investigations, the State Bureau of Investigation, Sanford Police Department, and Lee County Sheriff’s Office for their work investigating the case. “Today’s sentencing concludes a successful collaboration with our state and local partners that makes Sanford and Lee County safer and stronger communities,” said U.S. Attorney Bishop. “Stopping the flow of dangerous drugs trafficked by Mexican organizations is a top priority for federal prosecutors.”“This operation highlights the power of our federal and state partnerships to dismantle trafficking networks flooding North Carolina with high-purity methamphetamine,” said Mark M. Zito, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Carolinas. “Working alongside the North Carolina SBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, HSI remains relentless in targeting those who endanger our neighborhoods with narcotics and firearms.”In December 2024, law enforcement intercepted a package containing 1.7 kilograms of methamphetamine mailed from California to Mastache Juarez’s residence in Sanford. Homeland Security Investigations conducted a controlled delivery followed by the execution of a search warrant. Agents found Mastache Juarez in possession of the package which he had partially opened. In Mastache Juarez’s bedroom, agents recovered 200 grams of cocaine, three rifles, and a handgun. Mastache Juarez’s cousin arranged the shipment of methamphetamine from Mexico. Mastache Juarez was initially arrested on state charges.Mastache Juarez is a Mexican national who had lawful permanent status in the United States at the time of his arrest and conviction. Following conviction, his legal status was revoked and his application for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) was denied. Upon completion of his sentence, he will be removed from the United States and returned to Mexico.###
Source: U.S. Department of Justice