PUGET SOUND, Wash. — Nineteen people were indicted Tuesday following a months-long investigation into a South Sound drug trafficking organization with alleged ties to a Mexican cartel, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced.
>> Mexican cartels funneling meth to Washington state during pandemic
Over 100 pounds of methamphetamine and 10 pounds of heroin were seized, according to a news release.
“The South Sound streets are safer today with the removal of this violent criminal ring that pushed heroin, methamphetamine and fentanyl into our communities,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Keith Weis.
Fifteen search warrants were served in the Puget Sound and four were served in California.
There are 19 defendants named in the grand jury indictment with charges including conspiracy, possession, attempted possession and distribution of methamphetamine and heroin.
“This cartel is known as a violent and prolific drug trafficking group. I commend the DEA-led task force for taking a bite out of its drug distribution and money laundering networks,” said U.S. Attorney Brian Moran.