Laguna Police Participate in Massive Drug Trafficking Takedown
ALBUQUERQUE, NM – In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, federal law enforcement agencies have charged fifteen individuals in connection with a major drug trafficking organization operating out of Albuquerque. The operation, led by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), resulted in the execution of federal search warrants at thirteen locations and the seizure of a substantial quantity of drugs, firearms, and cash.
The defendants, charged with federal drug trafficking offenses, are alleged to have conspired to distribute a range of narcotics including fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine between August 19, 2020, and November 29, 2023. In addition to drug-related charges, three of the defendants also face charges for distributing controlled substances within one thousand feet of Wilson Middle School in southeast Albuquerque.
During the enforcement operation and the preceding investigation, authorities made significant seizures, including:
• Approximately 102 pounds of methamphetamine • 21 kilograms of cocaine
• 2.8 kilograms of heroin • Approximately 10,000 fentanyl pills
• 34 firearms, including 8 'ghost guns' without serial numbers
• Approximately $124,000 in cash
The operation has dealt a significant blow to the drug trafficking organization, disrupting their illicit activities and removing a substantial amount of narcotics from circulation.
It's important to note that a criminal indictment is an accusation and does not indicate guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. If convicted, they could face sentences of at least five years in prison.
This complex and extensive investigation was carried out by a joint effort of multiple law enforcement agencies, including the DEA, Rio Rancho Police Department, Pojoaque Pueblo Police Department, Laguna Police Department, Albuquerque Police Department, Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, Sandoval County Sheriff’s Office, New Mexico State Police, Homeland Security Investigations, United States Marshals Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives played a crucial role in assisting the DEA in the recovery of the 34 firearms, including 'ghost guns.'
This operation falls under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program, a Department of Justice initiative that combines the resources and expertise of federal agencies and local law enforcement to combat and dismantle major drug trafficking organizations.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Hirsch and Joseph Spindle are responsible for prosecuting the case, ensuring that justice is served in this extensive and significant drug trafficking investigation.