Cesar Alexander Pineda-Penaloza, a 21-year-old from California, has been sentenced to 10 years and 10 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine. Following his release, he will be subject to four years of supervised release.
Court documents show that between January 2023 and November 2024, Pineda-Penaloza acted as a courier for drug trafficking operations. He traveled multiple times by commercial airline from the West Coast to the Midwest, transporting drugs and proceeds from drug sales.
On November 9, 2024, federal agents apprehended Pineda-Penaloza at Indianapolis International Airport after he arrived on a one-way flight from California. At baggage claim, agents searched two suitcases retrieved by Pineda-Penaloza and found nearly 20 kilograms (45 pounds) of pure methamphetamine inside.
United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana Tom Wheeler commented on the case: “The defendant foolishly thought he could stroll off a plane in Indianapolis with suitcases full of meth and no one would be the wiser. He was gravely mistaken. Federal agents and local partners intercepted him the moment he landed, preventing nearly 45 pounds of poison from reaching our community. This sentence sends a clear message: traffickers who attempt to move drugs into Indiana from out of state will be caught and held accountable.”
Matthew J. Scarpino, special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Chicago said: “This case demonstrates the unwavering commitment of HSI to combat the dangers of drug trafficking. Transporting 45 pounds of methamphetamine is a direct threat to public safety. This sentence sends a clear message—those who profit from illegal drugs will face serious federal consequences.”
Shane R. Catone, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration Chicago Field Division stated: “The sentencing of Cesar Alexander Pineda-Penaloza reflects DEA’s unwavering commitment to dismantling the criminal networks that endanger our communities and to ensure those who transport this poison are held accountable. In partnership with U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Indiana, and our federal, state and local law enforcement and partners, we stopped a major shipment of methamphetamine from reaching the Midwest and ensured the individual responsible will face the consequences of his actions.”
A spokesperson added: “This case is a perfect example of what happens when federal, state, and local law enforcement work together seamlessly. We’re thankful for the dedication of everyone involved in stopping this dangerous shipment and ensuring the courier now faces more than a decade in federal prison.”
Captain Ron Galaviz with Indiana State Police said: “The Indiana State Police actively collaborate with various law enforcement partners at all levels (local, state, and federal) to combat criminal elements involved in illicit narcotics. This collaborative approach aims to enhance public safety by disrupting the flow of illegal drugs and bringing those involved in their trafficking to justice.”
The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Indiana State Police, and Plainfield Police Department. The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Walton Pratt.
U.S. Attorney Wheeler expressed appreciation for Assistant U.S. Attorney Cristina Caraballo Colon’s role as prosecutor on this case.
This prosecution is part of an initiative led by Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF), established under Executive Order 14159 aimed at protecting Americans against criminal organizations operating within or outside U.S borders through coordinated efforts among multiple agencies including FBI; Homeland Security Investigations; Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms & Explosives; Drug Enforcement Administration; Internal Revenue Service; Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department; Indiana National Guard; HIDTA; Customs & Border Protection Office Of Field Operations; Marion County Sheriff’s Office; Plainfield Police Department—with prosecutions managed by United States Attorney’s Office for Southern District Of Indiana.
