ICE Arrests: 21-Year-Old Gets 20 Years in Drug Case
A 21-year-old man from Mexico will spend the next two decades in a federal prison — and then face deportation. His case is part of a sweeping federal operation targeting cartel-linked drug networks across the US. For immigrants living here, it raises an urgent question: what happens to your immigration status if you are caught up in a federal investigation?
21-Year-Old Sentenced to 20 Years — Then Deportation
A federal court in San Diego sentenced Ricardo Orizaba-Zendejas, 21, to 20 years in prison on June 9, 2026. The charges included conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine, plus weapons violations. After he finishes his sentence, the government plans to remove him to Mexico. ICE's Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) office in Yakima, Washington, announced the sentencing.
The case came out of Operation Gone in 60 Seconds, a joint investigation led by HSI San Diego and HSI Yakima. Investigators say the operation targeted a drug trafficking organization connected to the Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation cartels. Prosecutors say the group was responsible for multiple murders — including the killing of a government witness — as well as drug smuggling and federal weapons violations.
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Immigrant rights, appeals and protective measures
The case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF), a multi-agency partnership created under Executive Order 14159. The HSTF brings together agencies including the FBI, DEA, ATF, U.S. Marshals, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and others. Its stated goal is to identify, investigate, and prosecute criminal organizations operating inside the United States. Acting HSI Executive Associate Director John A. Condon said the sentencing sends a clear message to those who bring guns and drugs into communities.
What This Means for Immigrants in Removal Proceedings
This case is a reminder that criminal convictions — especially for drug or weapons offenses — can trigger removal proceedings (the official legal process to deport someone). Even lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can face deportation if convicted of certain crimes. If you or someone you know is facing an immigration court hearing or removal proceedings, acting quickly is critical. Deadlines in immigration court are strict and missing them can hurt your case.
What to do
- If you receive a notice to appear in immigration court, do not ignore it. Missing your hearing can result in an automatic removal order against you.
- Contact an immigration lawyer as soon as possible. In removal proceedings, you have the right to be represented by an attorney — though the government will not pay for one. Many nonprofit organizations offer free or low-cost legal help.
- Know your deadlines. You generally have 30 days to appeal an order of removal, and 90 days to file a motion to reopen your case if new facts come up.
- Do not discuss your case with ICE agents without a lawyer present. You have the right to remain silent and to speak with an attorney before answering questions.
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A criminal conviction — especially for drug distribution or weapons charges — is one of the fastest paths to mandatory deportation, even for green card holders. If you or a family member is arrested, do not wait for the criminal case to end before consulting an immigration attorney, because the immigration consequences can be just as serious as the criminal ones. An attorney can sometimes file motions or identify relief options that are only available before certain deadlines pass — so early action matters enormously.