LEXINGTON, KY – A Mexican National, residing in Lexington, Renaldo Villa Gomez, 38, was sentenced on Monday, to 25 years in federal prison, by U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell, for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute 50 grams of more of methamphetamine, unlawful re-entry into the United States after a prior deportation, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to his plea agreement, following surveillance, law enforcement conducted searches of a vehicle and multiple residences in in Fayette County affiliated with the conspiracy. In all, law enforcement seized 23.7 kilograms (52 pounds) of crystal methamphetamine, 1.7 kilos of cocaine, six semi-automatic firearms, ammunition, ammunition magazines, and more than $91,000 in drug proceeds.
Gomez admitted to the possession of the drugs, firearms, and cash proceeds. Gomez further admitted that he was born in Mexico and has been deported several times, including in April 2004, August 2009, October 2015, and August 2017. Gomez has also been convicted of two prior drug felony offenses and four prior illegal reentry convictions.
Under federal law, Gomez must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence. Upon competition his prison sentence, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for five years. He will also be processed for deportation.
Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Erek Davodowich, Acting Special Agent in Charge, DEA, Louisville Field Division; Michael E. Stansbury, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office; LaDeon Francis, Director, Department of Homeland Security, ICE-ERO (Enforcement and Removal Operations) Chicago Field Office; and Chief Lawrence Weathers, Lexington Police Department, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA, FBI, ICE- ERO, and the Lexington Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Roger West is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.
— END —
