A father and son from Los Angeles are facing serious federal charges related to fentanyl trafficking and illegal firearm sales, authorities announced on Monday.
The U.S. Department of Justice revealed that Antonio Espinoza Zarate, 55, and his son, Francisco Javier Espinoza Galindo, 31, are accused of distributing a total of 4.4 pounds of fentanyl pills, along with selling several firearms and ammunition.
Antonio, a resident of the Mar Vista area, and Francisco, who lives in Santa Monica, were both arrested on March 26, 2025, by authorities in Los Angeles County.
Federal court documents detail multiple alleged transactions starting in 2023. In July, Antonio reportedly sold a pistol, a rifle, 131 rounds of ammunition, and over 1.1 pounds of fentanyl pills to an undercover buyer. Antonio, also known by the alias “El Gato,” is not licensed to deal firearms.
In another transaction the following month, Antonio is accused of selling an AR-style rifle and approximately 2.2 pounds of fentanyl pills, this time with the narcotics and firearms supplied by Francisco.
The next incident took place in January 2025 when Antonio allegedly sold additional firearms, including a rifle, a pistol, and a revolver, along with ammunition, to a buyer.
In February 2025, Antonio sold over 1.1 pounds of fentanyl pills to an undercover informant, with Francisco present, which ultimately led to the pair’s arrest in March.
In addition to the fentanyl and firearm charges, Antonio faces an additional charge for reentering the United States after multiple deportations. He also has a criminal history, including a 2008 felony conviction for narcotics possession with intent to sell.
If convicted, both father and son could face up to life in prison, with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years.
