Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 135 Months Federal Prison for Trafficking Methamphetamine and Possession of a Firearm

Hagatña, Guam – SHAWN N. ANDERSON, United States Attorney for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, announced that defendant Shaylene Doris Valentine, age 29, from Guam, was sentenced to 135 months imprisonment.  Valentine was charged with Possession with Intent to Deliver Fifty or More Grams of Methamphetamine Hydrochloride, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) and Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §922(g)(1).  The Court also ordered 5 years of supervised release following imprisonment and a mandatory $200 special assessment fee.  In addition, defendants convicted of a federal drug offense may no longer qualify for certain federal benefits. 

On February 24, 2023, GPD officers stopped Valentine for a traffic violation.  Officers noticed that she appeared to be nervous and kept looking down at her feet.  Valentine consented to a search of the vehicle. Officers then located a glass jar and a cooler, both of which contained suspected methamphetamine.  Forensic testing indicated a net weight of 362 grams with a purity level of 99%.  Officers also found a handgun, 16 rounds of ammunition, and an empty magazine beneath the driver’s seat.  Valentine is a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing any firearms or ammunition.  A search of Valentine’s cellular phone revealed that she sold methamphetamine.  The phone also contained videos of her discharging firearms on prior occasions.  A subsequent search of Valentine’s residence revealed two additional firearms and ammunition.  

“Drugs and firearms are a dangerous combination,” stated United States Attorney Anderson.  “This case demonstrates the threats faced by law enforcement during seemingly routine traffic stops.  I applaud the efforts of GPD and our federal partners in combating this illegal activity.”

“This sentencing sends a message that drug traffickers will be held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge John F. Tobon. “Any time we can remove large amounts of debilitating drugs such as methamphetamine, it is a big win. HSI remains committed to working hand in hand with our state, local and federal partners to keep our communities safe. HSI commends the outstanding work of all the agencies who participated in this investigation.”

This case was a joint investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (BATFE), and the Guam Police Department (GPD).

The case was prosecuted by Rosetta L. San Nicolas, Assistant United States Attorney in the District of Guam.