A resident of Mexico received a federal prison sentence in connection to drug crimes committed in Iredell County. 30-year-old Yael Aguilar of Mexico City was sentenced Tuesday (November 7) to 97 months (eight years, one month) in prison followed by four years of supervised release for distribution of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by an illegal alien. The announcement was made by Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Among those joining U.S. Attorney King was Chief Ron Campurciani of the Mooresville Police Department.

According to court documents and court proceedings, in August 2022, the ATF and the Mooresville Police Department initiated an investigation into Aguilar for suspected drug distribution. Over the course of the investigation, law enforcement conducted at least three controlled purchases of narcotics including methamphetamine, from Aguilar. During one of the controlled purchases, Aguilar was reportedly armed.

On September 22, 2022, police executed a search warrant at Aguilar’s residence and the two vehicles located in the driveway. During the search, law enforcement recovered narcotics, digital scales, and more than $24,000 in cash. Law enforcement also seized a loaded firearm, assorted ammunition, and a privately made firearm, also known as a “ghost gun,” with a Glock slide, magazine, and ammunition. Aguilar is an illegal alien and he is not permitted to own or possess firearms.

Aguilar remains in federal custody and was to be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility. The ATF and the Mooresville Police Department investigated the case.