Acting United States Attorney Matthew Molsen announced that Jose Luis Deleon, a 65-year-old resident of Grand Island, Nebraska, has been sentenced to 57 months in federal prison for two counts of methamphetamine distribution. The sentencing took place on February 13, 2025, in Lincoln's federal court, presided over by United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis. Following his prison term, Deleon will serve a three-year supervised release period. Federal sentences do not allow for parole.
The charges against Deleon stem from incidents dating back to May 2014. On May 12 and May 22 of that year, a Confidential Informant (CI) collaborating with the Central Nebraska Drug and Safe Streets Task Force conducted controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Deleon in Grand Island. In both instances, the CI paid $1,100 in exchange for approximately 23 grams of meth.
Deleon's legal proceedings faced delays when he failed to appear for an entry of plea hearing initially scheduled for July 2015. His absence continued until authorities apprehended him in Houston, Texas, in June 2024.
The investigation leading to Deleon's arrest and conviction was carried out by the Central Nebraska Drug and Safe Streets Task Force.