ALBUQUERQUE — This is an official press release from the U.S. Department of Justice (Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)), published as received.
ALBUQUERQUE – A Las Cruces woman was sentenced to eight years in federal prison for trafficking fentanyl while armed with a stolen handgun after leading deputies on a high-speed pursuit.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on July 30, 2025, Cassidy Shae Montoya, 32, fled from Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office deputies after they attempted to stop her near Vado, New Mexico. Montoya drove toward Las Cruces at speeds of approximately 90 to 110 miles per hour, continued fleeing after spike strips were deployed and eventually struck a curb near Telshor Boulevard and Terrace Drive. She then ran from the vehicle before deputies apprehended her.
Deputies found a loaded handgun on the driver’s side floorboard. The firearm, which contained a magazine loaded with 15 rounds of ammunition, had been reported stolen in March 2025. Deputies also recovered approximately 356 fentanyl pills and approximately $373 in cash.
Montoya admitted that she intended to distribute the fentanyl and possessed the firearm to protect herself, her drugs and the proceeds from her drug trafficking. At the time, Montoya had a prior felony conviction and knew she was prohibited from possessing a firearm.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Maria Y. Armijo and Tanisha V. Henson prosecuted the case.
