U.S. District Judge Liles C. Burke sentenced two Colombian nationals, who were in the United States illegally, for their part in cocaine trafficking, but deportation proceedings will begin after the sentence is complete.
Johan Leandro Zapata-Valencia, 26, and Christian Yesid Lugo-Beltran, 26, will spend 57 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine. There is no parole in the federal system, so they will likely serve all of that time.
Calera Police arrested the pair in February 2025 after an officer noticed a tag light out. Investigators said the suspects were traveling from South Florida to transport 21 kilograms of cocaine.
“This case represents the best of local law enforcement,” said U.S. Attorney Phil Williams. “The officers saw something, followed up, and were ultimately able to get 21 kilograms of cocaine off our interstates. Illegal aliens have no place in this country, especially when trafficking major quantities of narcotics.”
“Twenty-one kilograms of cocaine is not just a number—it represents a significant threat to the safety and well-being of our communities,” said Steven N. Schrank, the special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Georgia and Alabama. “This case demonstrates HSI’s unwavering commitment to working with our law enforcement partners to keep dangerous drugs and the violence they fuel off our streets. We will continue to relentlessly pursue those who seek to profit from trafficking poison into our neighborhoods and hold them accountable.”
Williams said that upon the completion of their sentence, Lugo-Beltran and Zapata Valencia will be deported immediately.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email [email protected].
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every day or become a member to gain access to exclusive content.
