News Summary
Daniel Quinones-Castro, a 34-year-old Phoenix resident, has been sentenced to five years in prison for drug trafficking and weapons misconduct. After pleading guilty to conspiracy charges, Quinones-Castro was implicated in a drug operation responsible for the distribution of methamphetamine and cocaine. Authorities also seized a weapon intended for smuggling operations. The case highlights intensified law enforcement efforts against drug-related crimes in the area.
Phoenix, Arizona – Daniel Quinones-Castro, a 34-year-old man from Phoenix, has been sentenced to five years in prison for his involvement in drug trafficking and weapons misconduct. Quinones-Castro pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit possession of a dangerous drug for sale and weapons misconduct in July 2025. The sentencing took place on August 20, 2025.
According to investigations led by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Quinones-Castro was part of a drug trafficking organization operating in the Valley. This investigation began in September 2018, with authorities determining Quinones-Castro’s role in directing associates to obtain and distribute illicit drugs.
Over a period of approximately five months, Quinones-Castro participated in the trafficking of more than seven pounds each of methamphetamine and cocaine. His activities included instructing associates to carry out drug sales, which were monitored through surveillance efforts by investigators.
As part of the investigation, authorities also seized a belt-fed rifle from Quinones-Castro. This firearm was reportedly intended for smuggling operations into Mexico, highlighting the severe nature of the activities associated with drug trafficking.
Additionally, two of Quinones-Castro’s co-conspirators, Mark Lujan and Daniel Granucci, received sentences of supervised probation. They were found guilty of selling methamphetamine and laundering the proceeds from drug sales.
The sentencing of Quinones-Castro marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing fight against drug trafficking in the region. The coordinated efforts of the DEA and other law enforcement entities have underscored the dangers of such operations, not only in terms of drug use and distribution but also related criminal activities involving weapons.
This case is part of a broader trend observed in the Valley, where law enforcement has intensified scrutiny on drug-related activities. The DEA had initiated a series of investigations targeting various drug trafficking organizations, responding to an increase in drug-related crime in the area. The success of these operations aims to dismantle networks that have been responsible for distributing drugs and contributing to community concerns over safety and health.
The sentencing of Quinones-Castro is a reminder of the serious consequences involved in drug trafficking and illicit activities. It reflects the efforts of the Arizona Attorney General’s Office to clamp down on operations that endanger public health and safety. The case serves as a key part of the ongoing legal and enforcement strategies designed to combat organized crime related to drugs and weapons.
As authorities continue to monitor and investigate drug trafficking activities, they are expected to maintain pressure on those involved in such operations. The outcome of Quinones-Castro’s case stands as a warning to others who may consider participating in similar criminal enterprises.
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
