Alexis Carreon Bocanegra, a 25-year-old Mexican citizen without legal status in the United States, has been arrested and charged with federal offenses related to fentanyl distribution and firearm possession. Authorities allege that between February and March 2025, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents observed Bocanegra handling suspected drug proceeds totaling about $400,000. In March 2025, he allegedly distributed a vacuum-sealed package containing approximately one kilogram of fentanyl.
On August 25, 2025, DEA agents executed a search at Bocanegra’s residence in Stone Mountain. They reportedly found two firearms, including an AR-15 rifle, hidden under a bed. Agents also discovered around 5.5 kilograms of fentanyl concealed in a Huggies diaper box located in a nearby shed.
Bocanegra was formally charged on August 27, 2025, with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm by an illegal alien. A federal magistrate judge ordered him to remain in custody without bail on August 28.
“Bocanegra, an illegal alien, allegedly tried to hide a significant amount of deadly fentanyl and unlawfully armed himself to protect his stash,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “Thanks to the diligent investigation of our law enforcement partners, Bocanegra is now in federal custody. His fentanyl will never hit the streets, and his guns will no longer threaten the safety our community.”
“Fentanyl is a poison that continues to claim lives, and combining it with firearms only increases the danger,” said Jae W. Chung, the Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division. “DEA is committed to removing both from our streets.”
The public is reminded that these are allegations; Bocanegra is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case involves collaboration among several agencies: the Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office; Atlanta Police Department; DeKalb County Police Department; and Sandy Springs Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorney James Hwang is prosecuting this case.
This prosecution falls under Operation Take Back America—a national effort by the Department of Justice focused on combating illegal immigration and dismantling cartels and transnational criminal organizations through coordinated resources such as Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhoods (http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga).
Parents and children are encouraged by authorities to learn more about drug dangers at www.justthinktwice.gov.