Attorney General Kris Mayes has announced the sentencing of three defendants in a Pima County drug trafficking case. Francisco Abril received a sentence of 4.5 years in prison, followed by 3 years on probation upon release, for crimes including obtaining approximately 16 pounds of methamphetamine for sale and conducting an illegal enterprise to sell methamphetamine and fentanyl pills in the Tucson area. Abril also pled guilty to possessing a handgun despite being prohibited by law due to prior convictions.
"These sentences serve as a clear message: those who choose to endanger our communities by trafficking dangerous drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamine will be held accountable," said Attorney General Mayes. "The defendants showed a reckless disregard for the safety of children and the community, and my office remains committed to fighting drug trafficking to protect all Arizonans."
Gloria Ortiz and David Rivera were also charged and convicted in the case. Ortiz, who sometimes lived with Abril and their two children, pled guilty to endangerment of minors for allowing them access to fentanyl pills. She was placed on intensive probation for 3 years. During the investigation, Rivera was observed purchasing drugs from Abril’s residence. He pled guilty to attempted possession of 600 fentanyl pills and possession of a weapon by a convicted felon. On August 13, 2024, Rivera was sentenced to 6 months in prison followed by 3 years on probation upon his release.
Assistant Attorney General Sabrina Lochner prosecuted this case.