Ana Costilla and Jorge Hernandez Venegas, residents of Idaho Falls, have been sentenced to federal prison for their involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy. U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit made the announcement following the sentencing by Chief United States District Judge David C. Nye.
Costilla received a sentence of twelve and a half years, while Venegas was sentenced to nine years in federal prison. The sentences were given due to their roles in the drug trafficking operation.
Court records revealed that Costilla orchestrated the transportation of ten pounds of methamphetamine from California to her home in Idaho. Law enforcement intercepted Venegas as he departed from Costilla's residence, discovering one pound of methamphetamine in his vehicle. A subsequent search of Costilla’s home uncovered an additional nine pounds.
The case led to a federal grand jury indictment on January 23, 2024, against Costilla, Venegas, and Jesus Beltran-Zazusta, a Mexican national residing in Victor, Idaho. On December 2, 2024, Judge Nye sentenced Venegas to 108 months followed by five years of supervised release. Costilla was sentenced on January 6, 2025, receiving 150 months with five years of supervised release thereafter. Beltran-Zazusta has pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing on March 3, 2025.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit praised the efforts of the Idaho Falls Police Department and Teton County Sheriff’s Office for their work leading to these charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney Blythe H. McLane handled the prosecution.