Las Vegas Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking and Gun Charges

Categories: Breaking NewsCrimeGovernment NewsNews

Law enforcement officials conducting a vehicle search in Las Vegas as part of a drug trafficking investigation.

News Summary

Anthony Valenzuela, a Las Vegas resident, has been sentenced to over 12 years in federal prison for drug trafficking and firearm possession while on supervised release. His case highlights serious issues surrounding drug use and illegal firearms possession in the U.S. The incident involved the discovery of methamphetamine and a loaded handgun during a routine probation check, resulting in significant legal repercussions. Valenzuela will face additional supervised release terms after completing his prison sentence.

Las Vegas Man Sentenced to Over 12 Years for Drug and Gun Charges

Las Vegas, NV – Anthony Valenzuela, a resident of Las Vegas, has been sentenced to 151 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine while on supervised release. The sentence was handed down on May 19, 2025, by United States District Judge James C. Mahan.

Valenzuela, who pleaded guilty to the charge in January 2025, was already on supervised release due to a prior felony conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm at the time of his latest offense. The legal issues stemmed from an incident that took place on March 7, 2023, when Valenzuela arrived at the U.S. Probation Office for a scheduled meeting with his supervising officer.

Details of the Incident

During a routine search of Valenzuela’s vehicle, law enforcement uncovered significant evidence of drug trafficking. The search revealed a book bag that contained a digital scale, plastic bags, personal mail, and a fake drink can that was cleverly modified to hold methamphetamine. Additionally, another bag found in the vehicle contained more methamphetamine, as well as a Taurus 9mm semiautomatic pistol.

The total quantity of methamphetamine seized exceeded 150 grams and was estimated to be between 150 grams and 500 grams, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. This amount exceeds the threshold that triggers more severe penalties under federal law, contributing to Valenzuela’s lengthy prison sentence.

Post-Sentencing Conditions

Upon completing his prison term, Valenzuela will face further legal obligations, including five years of supervised release. This condition will require him to adhere to specific regulations and check-ins with a probation officer during the designated period following his time in custody.

Background Context

Drug possession and distribution, especially involving substances like methamphetamine, have become critical concerns for law enforcement across the United States. The opioid epidemic and the rise in methamphetamine use have prompted stricter laws and sentencing guidelines to deter such criminal activities. Felons already serving supervised release who are found in possession of firearms face additional legal repercussions, as indicated in Valenzuela’s case.

The U.S. Probation Office regularly conducts checks to ensure compliance with the terms of supervised release. Valenzuela’s case serves as a notable example of the legal consequences that can arise when individuals violate the terms of their release, particularly with the possession of illegal substances and firearms.

This incident not only underscores the ongoing issue of illegal drug distribution in Las Vegas but also the complexities surrounding probation and the legal system’s attempts to reduce recidivism among previously incarcerated individuals.