A Mexican national living illegally in Hazlehurst, Georgia, has been sentenced to 215 months in federal prison for possession and attempted possession with intent to distribute over four pounds of pure methamphetamine. The sentencing of Ismael Delgado-Celis, 37, was handed down by Judge Lisa Godbey Wood on August 28, 2025, following his conviction at trial in the Southern District of Georgia.
Authorities revealed that on September 12, 2024, Delgado-Celis attempted to receive a package shipped from Mexico. The package appeared to contain a horse saddle but was found by law enforcement to conceal more than two kilograms of pure methamphetamine. Law enforcement agents removed the drugs before delivering the package as part of a controlled operation. Delgado-Celis accepted and stored the package at his residence before being arrested.
United States Attorney Margaret E. Heap commented on the impact of methamphetamine distribution: “Methamphetamine destroys lives, families, and communities. This amount of methamphetamine could have devastated the community. I am pleased to work with such great law enforcement partners. It takes a network of law enforcement professionals to dismantle a network of criminals.”
Steven N. Schrank, Special Agent in Charge for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Georgia and Alabama, stated: “The sentencing of Delgado-Celis underscores the unwavering commitment of Homeland Security Investigations to protect our communities from the devastating impact of drug trafficking,” adding that smuggling pure methamphetamine hidden in a horse saddle is both brazen and harmful.
Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge for the DEA Atlanta Division said: “Using a shipping service to traffic dangerous drugs not only threatens our communities but also places unsuspecting workers at risk,” emphasizing ongoing efforts by DEA investigators to intercept such packages.
Rodney M. Hopkins, Inspector in Charge for the Postal Inspection Service’s Atlanta Division noted: “Postal Inspectors will continue to support our law enforcement partners in the removal of lethal and dangerous drugs to keep communities safe.”
The investigation involved multiple agencies including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and Jeff Davis Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was led by Assistant United States Attorney Ryan Bondura and Deputy Criminal Chief E. Greg Gilluly Jr.
