An illegal immigrant from El Salvador, who had been under a final order of deportation since July 18, 2024, was arrested on Aug. 20 and charged with distributing fentanyl near Park View High School in Loudoun County, Virginia. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that Isaac Melendez-Carranza, 31, was encountered in Sterling, Virginia, less than a month prior to his arrest, but no action was taken.
Melendez-Carranza was apprehended by U.S. Border Patrol near Hebbronville, Texas, on May 3, 2016, after illegally entering the U.S. He was released on bond on July 13, 2016, according to DHS.
The Loudoun County Sheriff's Office has identified Melendez-Carranza as a suspect in drug dealing activities linked to several suspected overdoses among students at Park View High School in May. During a search of his residence, deputies seized approximately 100 pills and $1,000 in cash. Melendez-Carranza is currently being held without bond at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center.
In May, multiple students were hospitalized after experiencing suspected non-fatal overdoses during school hours, prompting an investigation by the school system. At the time, Loudoun County Public Schools confirmed two students suffered overdoses and others were taken for evaluation, though it was unclear if controlled substances were involved or if the incidents were connected.
Sheriff Mike Chapman expressed concern that illicit drugs were reaching students and confirmed that ICE has placed a detainer on Melendez-Carranza. He is expected to be transferred to federal immigration authorities upon resolution of his local charges. The sheriff's office indicated that further arrests are possible in connection with the case.