Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell has announced the sentencing of Omar Evaristo Valenzuela Arella (DOB: 07/1980) to 10 years in prison for possession of four pounds of fentanyl and other narcotics, including methamphetamine and heroin.
“Fentanyl is not just a drug—it’s a poison. Every grain that makes its way into our community puts lives at risk,” said Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell. “We will not stand by and allow individuals to bring this poison into our community—this sentence underscores the work we are doing to combat this crisis.”
Arella was arrested in November 2022 following an extensive drug investigation conducted by state and federal law enforcement. A search of his Central Phoenix home revealed a significant quantity of drugs and other contraband, including:
- 25 pounds of methamphetamine
- Four pounds of heroin
- Four pounds of fentanyl powder
- Two weapons
- $10,000 in cash
In July of this year, a jury found Arella guilty of several charges, including:
- One count of Sale or Transportation of a Dangerous Drug, a Class Two Felony
- One count of Possession of a Dangerous Drug for Sale, a Class Two Felony
- Two counts of Possession of Narcotic Drugs for Sale, a Class Two Felony
- One count of Misconduct Involving Weapons, a Class Four Felony
Omar Evaristo Valenzuela Arella has now been sentenced to 10 years of confinement, reflecting the seriousness of his crimes and the ongoing efforts to protect the community from the dangers of narcotics trafficking.
