Watly Valenzuela/Dominican Republic/Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl

ICE New Orleans arrested Watly Valenzuela, a citizen of the Dominican Republic and an illegal alien in the United States, for his involvement in a serious narcotics trafficking offense. Valenzuela was convicted of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic opioid linked to a significant number of fatal overdoses nationwide.

Authorities determined that the quantity of fentanyl found in his possession, along with evidence of packaging and distribution materials, indicated his direct participation in drug trafficking operations rather than simple possession.

The presence of this lethal substance in his criminal activities posed a considerable threat to the public, given fentanyl’s extreme potency and the high risk of overdose from even small amounts.

Following the completion of his criminal proceedings, immigration enforcement officers placed Valenzuela in custody to initiate removal actions under U.S. immigration law. His conviction qualifies as an aggravated felony, making him subject to mandatory deportation.

He will remain detained in ICE custody while officials finalize arrangements for his return to the Dominican Republic, where he will be released into the jurisdiction of his home country’s authorities.