Johnny Javier Morel-Pineda, a 32-year-old Kent resident, has been found guilty of distributing methamphetamine following a three-day jury trial in a South King County area court, announced U.S. Attorney Brian T. Moran. Morel-Pineda is facing a mandatory minimum of 5 years in prison and up to 40 years in prison when sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Ricardo S. Martinez on June 14, 2019. The Honduran national is likely to be deported following his prison term.
According to testimony at trial and records filed in the case, Morel-Pineda came to the attention of law enforcement as a source of methamphetamine in the South King County area. A confidential informant, working with law enforcement, set up a drug deal with Morel-Pineda. The telephone calls setting up the April 2018 drug deal, as well as the drug sale in Morel-Pineda’s car, were audio recorded. In the calls and via text message, the two spoke in code, calling an ounce of methamphetamine a ‘taco,’ and pricing ‘four tacos’ at $1200.
The jury deliberated about 90 minutes before reaching the guilty verdict.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). These agencies worked diligently to bring Morel-Pineda to justice, highlighting the ongoing struggle against the spread of illicit substances in our communities.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Joshua Ferrentino and Amy Jaquette, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to fighting crime and upholding the law.
With the verdict in, the community can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that one of the primary sources of methamphetamine in the area has been convicted and will face severe consequences for his actions. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates on the trial and sentencing.
This conviction serves as a reminder of the dangers of methamphetamine distribution and the crucial role that law enforcement agencies, such as the DEA and HSI, play in keeping our communities safe.
We will continue to monitor this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.
Key Facts
- State: Washington
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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