NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Twenty-seven defendants were prosecuted in connection with “an extensive drug and money laundering conspiracy” that operated in the mid-state from 2018 through 2021, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Tennessee.
Federal law enforcement agents identified U.S. Mail parcels “containing substantial quantities” of fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine and marijuana. The drugs were connected to a large-scale drug trafficking conspiracy operated within the state prison system by Humberto “Pelon” Morales. Over the course of the investigation, authorities determined Morales allegedly operated across numerous Middle Tennessee counties as well as other states and Mexico.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office alleged that at Morales’ discretion, co-conspirators “routinely sent wire transfers consisting of drug proceeds totaling, at a minimum, hundreds of thousands of dollars” to Mexico to pay for controlled substances and to promote the continued operation of the conspiracy. Co-conspirators also deposited drug proceeds into bank accounts and conducted wire transfers related to the conspiracy.
CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime-related reports from across Middle Tennessee
“For years, our office has worked diligently to break up this deadly criminal organization and hold its members accountable,” acting U.S. Attorney Robert E. McGuire said. “These dangerous criminals who plagued our community are behind bars, some for decades. Thanks to the dedication of our prosecutors and our law enforcement partners, their day is over, and justice has been served.”…