EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) – Six individuals were arrested on state charges after a joint operation targeted a drug trafficking organization in Las Cruces, the Las Cruces Police Department (LCPD) shared in a news release issued by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Albuquerque Thursday, March 14.
According to the search warrant affidavit, the FBI and the Las Cruces/Dona Ana County Metro Narcotics Agency were investigating the distribution of methamphetamine out of the Desert Lodge Motel on West Picacho Avenue in Las Cruces, according to the press release.
In February and March, agents orchestrated controlled buys at the motel.
On Monday, March 12, agents executed the search warrant and seized fentanyl, methamphetamine and a firearm from the motel, according to the press release.
The federal search was conducted in conjunction with five other New Mexico state search warrants executed by LCPD. As a result of the operation, six individuals were arrested, according to the press release.
“We stand with our local partners to confront drug trafficking at every level,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico Alexander M.M. Uballez. “Through strong partnerships and close collaboration, we will bring justice and peace to our streets.”
“Collaborative law enforcement efforts will continue to identify and disrupt drug trafficking organizations bringing violence to our streets,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office Raul Bujanda. “Investigations like this prove the essential value of strong law enforcement partnerships and working together to meet a common goal.”
“This operation is a visible reminder of the amazing work that is being done between local, state, and federal agencies every day to address the violence and crime in our communities,” said LCPD Chief Jeremy Story. “These efforts make a difference in our city, and we will continue to work together to make Las Cruces and New Mexico safer.”
Additionally, the Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case in collaboration with the LCPD. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Armijo is assisting with the investigation.
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