Jackson — Federal prosecutors have charged two men with multiple drug-trafficking offenses after an undercover investigation in Jackson allegedly uncovered methamphetamine, cocaine, and a firearm inside a local apartment.
Investigation Began With Controlled Purchases
According to federal court records, the case was built around controlled drug buys arranged through a confidential informant. Investigators allege that the informant purchased narcotics directly from the suspects under law-enforcement supervision, forming the basis for federal charges.
Authorities say the investigation relied on a combination of surveillance, GPS tracking, and search warrants, allowing agents to document repeated drug transactions tied to the same supply network operating in and around Jackson.
Defendants and Federal Charges
Federal prosecutors have identified the defendants as Isaac Jared Hernandez Valente, 24, of Alta, and Angel Osvaldo Cisneros-Montes, 26, of Jackson.
Hernandez Valente faces three federal felony counts related to the alleged distribution of cocaine and methamphetamine during undercover operations.
Cisneros-Montes is charged with five federal felony counts, including:
- Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
- Distribution of methamphetamine and cocaine
- Possession with intent to distribute
If convicted on all counts, Cisneros-Montes faces statutory maximum penalties of up to 135 years in federal prison, while Hernandez Valente could face up to 80 years, based on the charged offenses.
Firearm Allegation Added
Court documents also indicate that Cisneros-Montes faces a firearm charge, which prosecutors say is tied to his alleged immigration status. The firearm count stems from evidence recovered during the execution of a search warrant, according to investigators.
Search Warrants Reveal Drugs and Weapon
On Nov. 6, law-enforcement officers executed search warrants at Cisneros-Montes’ residence and vehicle. During the search, officers reported finding a significant quantity of narcotics and drug-distribution materials.
Investigators allege they recovered:
- Approximately 409 grams of methamphetamine
- About 11 grams of cocaine
- Packaging and distribution materials
- A Smith & Wesson revolver
Court records state the firearm was located inside a bedroom safe, along with the narcotics.
Arrests and Initial Court Appearances
The following day, Nov. 7, both defendants were taken into custody. They initially appeared in Teton County Circuit Court, where Judge Erin Weisman set $50,000 cash-only bonds in related state-level cases.
Later that same day, federal prosecutors filed a sealed criminal complaint in U.S. District Court in Wyoming, formally shifting the case into the federal system and expanding the scope of charges.
Federal Custody Continues
Both Hernandez Valente and Cisneros-Montes currently remain detained under federal authority, according to court filings. No trial date has yet been announced, and prosecutors have not disclosed whether additional defendants could be charged as the case progresses.
Broader Enforcement Context
Federal officials say the case highlights how undercover purchases and confidential informants are frequently used to dismantle drug-distribution networks before larger quantities of narcotics reach the community. Methamphetamine trafficking, in particular, remains a focus of federal enforcement efforts across Wyoming and neighboring states.
What Happens Next
The defendants are expected to make additional appearances in federal court as the case moves forward. If convicted, sentencing would be determined under federal sentencing guidelines, which consider drug quantity, criminal history, and the presence of firearms.
Conclusion
The Jackson case underscores the escalating consequences of federal drug prosecutions, where controlled buys and search warrants can quickly lead to decades-long prison exposure. As proceedings continue, authorities say they remain committed to disrupting illegal drug distribution in the region.
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