U.S. Attorney Joshua D. Hurwit | U.S. Department of Justice
U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced the outcomes of three drug distribution cases in southern Idaho, resulting in significant federal prison sentences for the defendants involved.
“These defendants are facing the consequences of engaging in drug trafficking in Idaho,” stated U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “Anyone else thinking of trafficking drugs in Idaho should pay attention. Our strong law enforcement partnerships will continue to detect drug trafficking in Idaho and our prosecutors will continue to ensure that justice is served.”
In one case, Zechariah Scott Chadwick, 37, from Poulsbo, Washington, received a 14.5-year sentence on November 6, 2024. He was charged with possessing fentanyl and methamphetamine with intent to distribute. On January 17, 2024, Chadwick crashed his vehicle in Twin Falls County while under the influence of drugs. A search revealed 2.73 pounds of fentanyl pills and 8.81 pounds of methamphetamine along with a loaded handgun. His criminal history includes convictions for theft and violence.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill ordered Chadwick to serve five years of supervised release after his prison term.
In another case, Nathan Gamble, 47, from Boise was sentenced to ten years for distributing methamphetamine as part of a trafficking organization operating between eastern Oregon and western Idaho. This organization trafficked hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine across both states.
U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also mandated five years of supervised release following Gamble's sentence.
The third case involved Ivan Cortez-Monarrez, 41, from Sinaloa, Mexico who was sentenced to over ten years for distributing methamphetamine and unlawfully possessing firearms as part of an operation involving a Mexican cartel transporting drugs from Arizona into Treasure Valley.
Cortez-Monarrez will be deported after serving his sentence due to his illegal status in the United States.
Special Agent Shohini Sinha emphasized the impact of law enforcement collaboration: “His sentencing is an example of what can be achieved when law enforcement at all levels works together.”
Sheriff Kieran Donahue highlighted efforts against cartel activities: “Thankfully our strong partnerships... allow us to fight this type of criminality head-on.”
The investigations were conducted by various agencies including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), FBI-led task forces and local police departments across Idaho and Oregon.
