Richland, Washington – Two men involved in a significant drug trafficking operation across Eastern Washington have been sentenced to federal prison. Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that Angel Ramon Barajas-Zarate, 26, from Colima, Mexico, received a sentence of 132 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release. Hector Sanchez-Mendez, 42, from Oaxaca, Mexico, was sentenced to 72 months in prison and five years of supervised release.
Court documents revealed that Barajas-Zarate used the United States Postal Service to distribute large quantities of controlled substances such as fentanyl-laced pills and methamphetamine starting in February 2022. Sanchez-Mendez operated a stash house for these drugs.
On December 14, 2022, investigators executed search warrants at multiple locations in Richland, Washington. They discovered 45 pounds of methamphetamine being prepared for sale in the attic of Sanchez-Mendez's stash house and found 13 firearms on the premises. A search of Barajas-Zarate’s truck revealed large amounts of methamphetamine and thousands of fentanyl-laced pills ready for distribution.
The investigation led to the seizure of over 100,000 fentanyl-laced pills (including pink and rainbow-colored varieties), more than 50 pounds of methamphetamine, approximately one kilogram of cocaine, $15,000 in U.S. currency, several money counters typically used by banks for counting cash, over 20 firearms, and significant ammunition supplies.
“This case serves as a powerful reminder that those who engage in trafficking dangerous drugs will be held accountable,” stated Acting United States Attorney Richard Barker. He emphasized the dedication shown by law enforcement partners and prosecutors committed to combating the opioid crisis.
W. Mike Herrington from the FBI’s Seattle field office noted: “Putting a stop to these two men’s crimes may have saved countless lives.” He highlighted the importance of partnerships among federal, state, and local agencies in addressing complex cases like this one.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI Southeast Washington Safe Streets Task Force with assistance from various local law enforcement agencies including Benton County Sheriff’s Office and Richland Police Department among others. The Drug Enforcement Administration and United States Border Patrol also contributed to the case which was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter.