California Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison for Methamphetamine Charge

United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Saul Chavez, age 20, of Indio, California, was sentenced today in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, after having pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. United States District Court Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Chavez to 96 months' imprisonment. Chavez also forfeited over $25,000 seized in the investigation. There is no parole in the federal system. After Chavez's release he will begin a 3-year term of supervised release.

On June 13, 2023, during a controlled purchase operation, Chavez distributed approximately a pound of meth to an undercover law enforcement officer in Omaha. Surveillance identified Chavez was using a California-plated vehicle and staying at a local Omaha motel.

On June 15, 2023, investigators conducted surveillance on Chavez and observed him drive away from the motel. He was stopped by an Omaha police officer and a subsequent search of his vehicle revealed one pound of meth.

During a post-arrest interview, Chavez admitted his vehicle contained a concealed compartment. Investigators located the compartment and discovered $25,622 and over 30 pounds of meth inside.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Omaha Police Department.