LAS CRUCES, N.M. — Two Las Cruces brothers have been sentenced to federal prison after authorities seized fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, firearms and cash during multiple searches tied to a drug trafficking investigation.
According to federal prosecutors, Eddie Linarez, 32, and Nathan Quintana, 28, lived at a home searched by FBI agents and members of the Las Cruces/Dona Ana County Metro Narcotics Task Force on March 7, 2024.
During a search of Linarez’s vehicle, investigators found a backpack containing methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, a loaded firearm and approximately $7,000 in cash.
Inside the home, agents discovered multiple firearms in Quintana’s bedroom, including rifles and handguns. Investigators also recovered fentanyl, cocaine, additional drugs, a digital scale and cash from various locations throughout the residence.
A second search warrant was executed at the home on March 6, 2025. Authorities said Linarez fled in a vehicle, leading agents on a pursuit before escaping. Prosecutors said he drove around a stopped school bus with its stop arm extended and entered oncoming traffic before agents ended the chase. Linarez surrendered to law enforcement six days later.
During that search, agents recovered additional fentanyl, cocaine, cash believed to be linked to drug sales and a loaded firearm.
Linarez pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl and cocaine, as well as possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He was sentenced to 168 months, or 14 years, in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release.
Quintana pleaded guilty to fentanyl and cocaine trafficking charges, along with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He was sentenced to 147 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release.
