In a dramatic federal investigation, authorities have unveiled a staggering indictment that reveals a coast-to-coast cocaine pipeline operating under the guise of luxury shipping services typically used for high-value items like diamonds and fine art. The operation, described as one of the largest of its kind, allegedly moved more than 22 tons of cocaine between Los Angeles and New York City, generating over $100 million in cash drug proceeds.
The sweeping indictment was unsealed on Thursday, leading to the arrest of five defendants in both California and New York, bringing the total number of individuals charged in connection with the operation to over a dozen. Among those already in federal custody are alleged ringleaders David Rodriguez—known by aliases such as “Gotti” and “Fat Boy”—and Raymond O’Connell, who is referred to as “Sal” and “White Boy.” Both have been implicated in orchestrating this elaborate scheme and have been in custody since last year. Another defendant, Ronell Sweat, is currently serving a 15-year sentence for a firearms charge.
Investigators estimate that at least 1,300 parcels were transported between the two cities during the operation. Approximately 800 of these parcels contained cocaine, valued at an estimated wholesale price of $315 million, while 500 parcels carried cash proceeds totaling around $105 million. Throughout the investigation, law enforcement has seized nearly 1,600 pounds of cocaine, $2.8 million in cash, and a collection of luxury vehicles and jewelry allegedly purchased with drug profits…