A Mexican national, Juan Carlos Espinoza Lopez, has been sentenced to 12½ years in federal prison for multiple criminal offenses, including drug trafficking, firearm possession, and illegal reentry into the United States, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Hawaii announced Wednesday.
Espinoza Lopez, 49, pleaded guilty to the charges on December 17, 2024. He admitted to possessing methamphetamine and heroin with the intent to distribute, unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition as a noncitizen, and illegally reentering the U.S. after being deported multiple times.
According to court documents, Espinoza Lopez is a native of Mexico who had been removed from the United States on four separate occasions, the most recent being in 2022. Despite his prior deportations, Espinoza Lopez unlawfully reentered the country and made his way to Hawaii, where he was apprehended in Ocean View in April 2024.
At the time of his arrest, Espinoza Lopez was found to be in possession of 176 grams of methamphetamine, 184 grams of heroin, and a Colt AR-15 rifle loaded with 27 rounds of ammunition.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ken Sorenson made a statement following the sentencing: “This prosecution and today’s lengthy sentence deliver the clear message that when you come to Hawaii as an illegal alien for the purpose of brazenly and repeatedly violating our nation’s laws, you will be federally prosecuted. We will not tolerate those who exploit our borders, endanger our citizens, and profit from the addiction, misery, and violence that accompany the trafficking of drugs in our communities.”
Espinoza Lopez’s sentence is a part of continued efforts by U.S. authorities to combat illegal drug trafficking and address illegal immigration, particularly from individuals with a history of criminal activity.
Sentencing: Espinoza Lopez will serve a significant prison sentence, which will contribute to efforts to curb the growing challenges associated with drug trafficking and illegal reentry in the U.S.
