Macon Times

A significant methamphetamine trafficker has been sentenced to 25 years in prison following an investigation into drug distribution activities in the Middle District of Georgia. Victor Uriel Diego Estrada, a 31-year-old from Michoacan, Mexico, received a sentence of 300 months imprisonment with an additional five years of supervised release. The sentencing was handed down by U.S. District Judge Tilman E. “Tripp” Self, III on October 7, after Estrada pleaded guilty to conspiracy and possession charges related to methamphetamine distribution on December 12, 2023. In the federal system, parole is not available.

"Victor Estrada produced and distributed a massive amount of methamphetamine and deadly quantities of a potentially lethal fentanyl mixture," stated U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. He emphasized the commitment to disrupt dangerous criminal activities and enhance community safety alongside law enforcement partners.

Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division, highlighted the DEA's dedication to combating drug cartels that disregard community welfare: "The investigation and subsequent conviction of this drug dealer demonstrates the DEA’s commitment."

Court documents revealed that the DEA initiated their investigation into Estrada's illegal activities in Walton County, Georgia through information from a confidential source linked to a Mexico-based narcotics broker. Under surveillance, the source purchased one kilogram of methamphetamine from Estrada on November 8, 2023, in Norcross, Georgia. Following this transaction, authorities observed Estrada buying hard chest coolers at multiple Walmart stores—items often used in clandestine meth labs.

On November 14, 2023, DEA agents searched Estrada’s home in Walton County and discovered over 21 kilograms of high-purity methamphetamine along with equipment for converting liquid meth into crystal form. Two cell phones were also seized; one contained messages with "SINSO" about converting liquid meth for distribution.

Further investigations led agents to another location in Forest Park, Georgia where they found approximately 180 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and four kilograms of cocaine mixed with fentanyl buried underground near the residence's backdoor.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted this case investigation while Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Morrison prosecuted it for the government.