Kansas City: Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison
This week, Kansas City saw a significant development in the battle against drug trafficking as 40-year-old Serjio Diaz was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison without the possibility of parole. The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge Greg Kays, who emphasized the seriousness of Diaz’s actions as the leader of a large drug-trafficking operation.
The Charges
In April 2024, Diaz pleaded guilty to a multitude of serious charges, including one count of conspiracy to distribute heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine, illegally possessing a firearm, and money laundering. The conspiracy, which he led, spanned from January 1, 2019, to June 22, 2021, and involved a dangerous network of drug distribution.
The Investigation
The investigation took a dramatic turn on March 18, 2019, when federal agents intercepted a package from California destined for Diaz’s home containing over 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine. On the same day, agents seized another package sent to his brother, Tony Diaz, which contained over three kilograms of methamphetamine. This marked the beginning of an extensive probe into their activities.
Controlled Transactions and Evidence
Over the course of the investigation, law enforcement conducted 23 controlled transactions using a confidential informant. During these carefully monitored purchases, agents successfully bought staggering quantities of drugs—more than 7 kilograms of methamphetamine, over 6 kilograms of heroin, and nearly half a kilogram of cocaine—from both Serjio and Tony Diaz for a total exceeding $243,900. In one notable instance, the informant bought a kilogram of methamphetamine from Tony Diaz for $9,000.
The investigation culminated on June 22, 2021, when federal agents arrested Serjio and Tony Diaz. In a search of Serjio’s residence, officers discovered nearly nine kilograms of heroin, 166 grams of cocaine, six bags of pills containing fentanyl, and a Glock 9mm semi-automatic pistol. They also uncovered a staggering $82,250 in cash.
Additional Findings
A search of Tony Diaz’s home turned up even more alarming evidence, including over a kilogram of suspected heroin, 28 grams of cocaine, two semiautomatic rifles, and over $5,000 in cash. Furthermore, law enforcement found a Remington .22-caliber rifle and a pound of suspected marijuana in his SUV.
Money Laundering Activities
Adding to the extensive nature of their illegal activities, Serjio Diaz was found to have made numerous money orders, with 93 deposits totaling $82,145 being made into either his bank account or that of his business, Imperial Window & Gutter Cleaning, LLC. Interestingly, he restricted his purchases to under $2,000 to sidestep federal reporting requirements, showcasing a shrewd effort to fly under the radar.
Co-Defendants and Future Sentencing
Diaz’s brother, Tony, who is also facing serious charges, has pleaded guilty to similar counts. His sentencing date is still pending. Additionally, a third co-defendant, Maria Jasmin Lopez, 24, from Phoenix, Arizona, has already been sentenced to 10 years and three months in federal prison for her role in the conspiracy.
Conclusion
The sentencing of Serjio Diaz sends a clear message about the legal repercussions of drug trafficking and illegal firearm possession. It serves as a reminder to the community that law enforcement is actively working to combat these serious offenses, ensuring that those who participate in such activities face justice.
