Luis Esquivel-Bolanos found guilty of large-scale drug trafficking in Washington, Montana

Luis Esquivel-Bolanos, a Mexican national and member of a drug trafficking organization with ties to the Jalisco Cartel, was found guilty by a federal jury on multiple drug trafficking and firearms charges. The organization distributed large quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine across Eastern Washington, Montana, and several Tribal reservations, including the Colville Indian Reservation and others in central Montana. Authorities seized approximately 161,000 fentanyl-laced pills, 80 pounds of methamphetamine, 6 pounds of heroin, over 2 pounds of cocaine, and 12 firearms during coordinated raids. Evidence at trial showed the group used threats, including intimidation and threats against informants and suspected thieves, to maintain control over their operations. Esquivel-Bolanos faces a maximum sentence of life in prison and possible removal from the U.S., with sentencing scheduled for July. Law enforcement officials highlighted the significant impact of the seizure and the importance of interagency cooperation in disrupting the exploitation of vulnerable Tribal communities.