Pueblo Drug Kingpin Sentenced to 180 Months

Denver – A severe blow to the drug trade in Pueblo came as Dominick Jesus Salazar, 52, was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm and ammunition.

Sentencing was handed down by United States District Judge Charlotte N. Sweeney following the revelation that Salazar had been actively dealing drugs out of his hotel room. On May 23, 2023, Pueblo Police Officers spotted Salazar engaging in suspicious activities with multiple individuals near a local hotel. Upon arrest, he was found to be carrying a loaded pistol and drug proceeds.

Inside the hotel room, authorities uncovered 188 grams of methamphetamine and 82 fentanyl pills. Evidence from Salazar’s phone further confirmed his involvement in drug dealing operations.

“Pueblo is safer because Mr. Salazar is going to federal prison,” said United States Attorney Peter McNeilly. “Our gratitude extends to the Pueblo Police Department and federal partners like the FBI for their relentless pursuit of violent crime and drug dealing in our community.”

FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Mark Michalek echoed the sentiment, stating, “When we bring the full force of federal prosecution against drug dealers, we’re delivering justice with real consequences. The FBI stands united with local law enforcement to drive violent crime out of our communities.”

The investigation was handled by the FBI Denver Field Office, with the Violent Crime and Immigration Enforcement Section of the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado overseeing the prosecution. Case Number: 23-CR-00310.

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