Arizona man who sold fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine sentenced to 6 years in prison

PHOENIX — A drug dealer has been sentenced to six years in prison after trying to sell large amounts of methamphetamine, cocaine and fentanyl to an informant, authorities announced Tuesday.

Cesar Penaloza’s Monday sentencing came after he pleaded guilty to one count of selling or transporting dangerous drugs as well as one count of selling or transporting narcotic drugs, according to the Arizona Attorney General’s Office.

He was also ordered to pay more than $11,700 in restitution for damaging property while he attempted to flee police last October.

In addition, Penaloza must also pay more than $12,500 in fines and surcharges.

“Drug traffickers who bring dangerous drugs into our communities should know that law enforcement is watching and we will find you and prosecute you,” Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes said in the announcement.

Methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl seller fled from law enforcement

Prior to his arrest, Penaloza sold the informant 4 pounds of methamphetamine for $4,200 on Aug. 19, 2025, according to prosecutors.

He next sold a quarter-kilogram of cocaine for $4,500 on Sept. 3, 2025.

He then agreed to sell a kilogram of fentanyl powder, a kilogram of cocaine and 10 pounds of methamphetamine for $39,000 on Oct. 1, 2025, prosecutors said.

On that day, Penaloza tried to drive away when law enforcement approached. He drove over a curb and sidewalk, struck a parked car, then accelerated, pushing that vehicle into a second car.

After his attempt to drive away didn’t work, he parked and tried to run away, but officers quickly arrested him.

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