Man Sentenced to 19 Years in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking Crimes

FLORENCE, S.C. - Raul Perales Guzman, 38, of San Luis, Mexico, was sentenced to more than 19 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, and distribution of fentanyl.

Evidence presented to the court showed that in June 2023, agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration observed Guzman and a co-defendant distribute one kilogram of fentanyl. Agents then obtained a search warrant for a residence in Conway, South Carolina, where Guzman was staying. During the execution of the search warrant, agents seized 43 kilograms of fentanyl, 23 kilograms of cocaine, 15 firearms, and approximately $407,000 in cash.

United States District Judge Joseph Dawson, III sentenced Guzman to concurrent sentences of 230 months' imprisonment, to be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Whit Sowards is prosecuting the case.

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