Major Methamphetamine Trafficker Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison
A large-scale methamphetamine trafficker was sentenced to 25 years in prison following a comprehensive investigation into fentanyl and methamphetamine distribution in the Middle District of Georgia.
Victor Uriel Diego Estrada, 31, of Michoacan, Mexico, was sentenced to 300 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, by U.S. District Judge Tilman E. “Tripp” Self, III, on Oct. 7. Estrada had previously pleaded guilty on Dec. 12, 2023, to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. There is no parole in the federal system.
“Victor Estrada produced and distributed a massive amount of methamphetamine and deadly quantities of a potentially lethal fentanyl mixture,” stated U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Alongside our law enforcement partners, we remain focused on disrupting dangerous criminal activity and holding those offenders accountable to make our communities safer and stronger.”
Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division, added, “The investigation and subsequent conviction of this drug dealer demonstrates the DEA’s commitment to fight the drug cartels who have no regard for the citizens of our community.”
According to court documents, the DEA began investigating Estrada’s illegal drug activity in Walton County, Georgia, after obtaining information from a confidential source connected to a Mexico-based narcotics broker with access to cocaine and methamphetamine supplies in north Georgia. On Nov. 8, 2023, under surveillance, the confidential source purchased one kilogram of methamphetamine from Estrada in Norcross, Georgia.
Following the purchase, authorities observed Estrada visiting three Walmart stores to buy hard chest coolers, which are often used in clandestine methamphetamine laboratories. On Nov. 14, 2023, DEA agents searched Estrada’s home in Walton County, finding 21 individual packages of methamphetamine, vacuum-sealed bags, digital scales, and equipment for converting liquid methamphetamine into solid form. In total, the packages contained 21,087.5 grams of methamphetamine with a 99% purity.
A search warrant executed on Estrada’s cell phones revealed conversations with an individual named “SINSO,” discussing methods to convert liquid methamphetamine into crystal form for distribution. Further investigations led agents to another home in Forest Park, Georgia, where approximately 180 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and a quantity of liquid methamphetamine were discovered. Additionally, agents found four kilograms of a cocaine and fentanyl mixture buried underground in a cooler near the back door of the residence. Equipment used in methamphetamine conversion, including propane burners and protective masks, was also located, along with a loaded 9mm handgun and spare magazine found in a bedroom.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), with Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Morrison prosecuting for the Government.
