Yakima, Washington – Three individuals have been sentenced to federal prison for their involvement in a drug trafficking organization run by Alexandro Aguilar from the Spokane County Jail. Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that Aguilar, 33, received a 30-year sentence, while Kassandra M. Montelongo, 27, and Luis Lara, 25, were each sentenced to 10 years.
Court documents reveal that in August 2022, Aguilar was already incarcerated following a murder conviction when he began orchestrating a drug operation from jail. Montelongo acted as his outside agent. Investigations identified Lara and another man, Jose Garcia, as participants in the operation.
Between December 2022 and January 2023, law enforcement conducted controlled purchases of drugs from Aguilar's operation in Spokane Valley. These transactions involved acquiring fentanyl pills and methamphetamine totaling over seven pounds. Cocaine was also obtained during these operations under law enforcement supervision.
A search warrant executed on June 7, 2023, at Montelongo’s residence in Sunnyside led to the discovery of approximately 11 pounds of methamphetamine along with firearms and ammunition.
On January 24, 2025, Garcia was sentenced to ten years for methamphetamine distribution.
“Drug trafficking continues to devastate families and communities across Eastern Washington," stated Acting United States Attorney Rich Barker. He emphasized ongoing efforts to combat addiction-related crimes and protect vulnerable areas.
W. Mike Herrington of the FBI’s Seattle field office commented on the case: "Dangerous drugs...have the potential to destroy lives...Mr. Aguilar ran the conspiracy from behind bars." He praised investigators' efforts in dismantling the operation.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI Spokane Regional Safe Streets Task Force and the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Nowles H. Heinrich and Patrick J. Cashman.
