Hector Manuel Cruz, Jr., 29, of Chandler, was sentenced last week by United States District Judge G. Murray Snow to 15 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release.

On April 25, 2023, Cruz pleaded guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.

Co-defendant Konstantin Shurayeu, 32, of Phoenix, was sentenced this summer by Judge Snow to seven years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. On March 14, 2023, Shurayeu also pleaded guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine.

On July 14, 2022, Cruz and Shurayeu met at an apartment complex in Phoenix to complete a drug transaction. Law enforcement ultimately found 4.93 kilograms of fentanyl, 3.38 kilograms of methamphetamine (actual), 8.49 grams of methamphetamine, 1.20 kilograms of cocaine, 0.77 kilograms of fentanyl analogue, 1.12 kilograms of heroin, 0.35 grams of oxycodone, 0.84 kilograms of marijuana and 12,330 units of Xanax (a Schedule IV substance) between Cruz’s vehicle, Shurayeu’s vehicle, and Cruz’s apartment.

Law enforcement also located 16 handguns, two shotguns, one rifle, a ballistic vest and $118,195.00 in United States currency in Cruz’s apartment.