HSI Sells Case Sends Tucson Man to 77 Months in Prison for Importing Methamphetamine

SELLS, Ariz. – A southern Arizona man was sentenced Nov. 7, to 77 months in prison for drug trafficking. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) conducted the investigation in this case.

“This case exemplifies that those involved in the drug trafficking will be vigorously investigated and prosecuted,” said Fransisco B. Burrola, special agent in charge of HSI Arizona. “HSI remains committed to dismantling drug trafficking organizations one by one.”

Upon release from prison, Slone Kelly, 29, of Tucson, will be placed on supervised release for 36 months. Kelly pleaded guilty to Importation of Methamphetamine May 1.

On Aug. 14, 2023, Kelly presented himself for inspection at the Port of Entry in Lukeville, Arizona, driving a 2008 Mercedes-Benz. Kelly told Customs and Border Protection officers that he was returning to Phoenix after attending a wedding in Rocky Point, Sonora, Mexico. During the inspection, x-ray detection observed anomalies inside the vehicle. Officers searched the vehicle and discovered a total of 50 packages of methamphetamine, weighing over 24 kilograms, and 29 packages of fentanyl, weighing over 11 kilograms, concealed inside.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan N. Wesley, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.