Reynaldo Kinjo Zialcita, 53, has been sentenced to over seven years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and being a drug user in possession of a firearm and ammunition. The announcement was made by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands.
Zialcita’s arrest occurred on November 16, 2023, when officers from the Guam Police Department conducted a routine traffic stop. Zialcita, the driver, was asked for his license but instead reached for a small bag on the passenger seat and attempted to conceal it. The officers ordered him out of the vehicle and, upon searching the bag, discovered a glass jar containing 249.6 grams of methamphetamine along with a loaded Sig Sauer P365 pistol.
Zialcita admitted to being a drug addict and revealed that he had started selling methamphetamine in game rooms during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also stated that he purchased the firearm to protect himself from potential robberies involving his drug proceeds.
“This case highlights the dangers law enforcement face during traffic stops and the serious consequences of drug trafficking and illegal firearm possession,” said U.S. Attorney Shawn N. Anderson. “By taking action against these crimes, we not only prevented a significant drug distribution but also reduced the risk of violence in the community.”
Zialcita’s sentence serves as a deterrent against illegal drug trade and firearm violence in the region.