SAN DIEGO, California — Sixteen alleged members of a drug trafficking organization based in Escondido have been charged with distributing methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and Adderall, according to federal indictments unsealed today. In a coordinated operation, over 150 law enforcement officials arrested all 16 defendants and executed search warrants across multiple locations.
The investigation, which spanned 16 months, resulted in the seizure of more than 2 kilograms of fentanyl, over 116 pounds of methamphetamine, substantial quantities of cocaine and Adderall, nine firearms, body armor, large capacity magazines, and ammunition, according to the press release. The charges include drug trafficking, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, and conspiracy to commit money laundering offenses.
“This group was flooding our community with methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, and prescription pills—drugs that tear families apart and put lives at risk,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Andrew Haden. “Thanks to this law enforcement effort, we’re taking a major step in making our streets safer and holding traffickers accountable.”…