Los Angeles, California – Federal prosecutors unsealed a sweeping indictment Thursday that reads like something out of a crime novel: a coast-to-coast cocaine pipeline hidden inside locked cases, shipped by air through luxury freight companies that normally handle diamonds and fine art. The scale is staggering. Authorities say the organization moved more than 22 tons of cocaine between Los Angeles and New York City, along with over $100 million in cash drug proceeds.
Five defendants were taken into custody Thursday morning in both cities, bringing the total charged in the case to more than a dozen. The arrests add to a list of already jailed figures that prosecutors describe as ringleaders: David Rodriguez, known as “Gotti” and “Fat Boy,” and Raymond O’Connell, nicknamed “Sal” and “White Boy.” Both have been in federal custody since last year, accused of orchestrating the operation. Another defendant, Ronell Sweat, is already serving a 15-year sentence on a firearms charge.
Investigators say at least 1,300 parcels traveled between the two cities during the scheme—roughly 800 containing cocaine with an estimated wholesale value of $315 million, and 500 carrying $105 million in declared value as cash proceeds. Along the way, law enforcement seized nearly 1,600 pounds of cocaine, $2.8 million in cash, and a collection of high-end cars and jewelry allegedly bought with drug profits…