News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 19, 2001

Seizure of 220 Pounds of Cocaine, $500,000 and the Arrest of 6 Individuals

William S. Duffey, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia; John J. Andrejko, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration; Eddie J. Moody, Chief, DeKalb County Police Department; Jim Weatherington, Commissioner, Department of Corrections; Walter Ray, Chairman, Board of Pardons and Paroles; and Stanley Tuggle, Sheriff and Chairman of the Board, Clayton County Drug Task Force, announce the seizure of 220 pounds of cocaine, approximately $500,000 in U.S. currency, 3 weapons, and the arrest of 6 individuals: Abel Mendoza-Maldonado, 28; Gerardo Vanderkam-Perez, 36; Antonio Valdivida, 39; Julian Aguirre-Solis, 22; Leon Fonseca, 33; and Marco Antonio Larumbe, 34.

All are being charged with knowingly and intentionally possessing with intent to distribute and conspiracy to distribute cocaine, in violation of Title 21 United States Code, Section(s) 841 and 846. This investigation began on November 18, 2001, when information was received regarding suspicious activity at 4188 Dogwood Drive, Lithonia, Georgia. When four vehicles suddenly left the residence, they were stopped and detained. One vehicle, driven by Julian Aguirre-Solis, was found to be transporting 88 pounds of cocaine. A Federal Search Warrant was obtained, and the subsequent search of the residence resulted in the seizure of an additional 132 pounds of cocaine and two Colt 45 caliber semi-automatic pistols. Follow-up investigation identified two other related locations: 1101 Casa Drive, Clarkston, Georgia; and 783 Tanner Drive, Scottdale, Georgia. A Federal Search Warrant executed at 783 Tanner Drive, Scottdale, Georgia resulted in the seizure of approximately $300,000 in U.S. currency, a gold-plated Colt 45 caliber semi-automatic pistol, and a Harley-Davidson truck. A consent search at 1101 Casa Drive, Clarkston, Georgia resulted in the seizure of approximately $170,000 in U.S. currency.

Assistant United States Attorney Paul Cognac is prosecuting the case. Members of the public should be aware that the defendants charged in this case are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

For further information please contact John J. Andrejko, Special Agent in Charge, through Eldred Earls at telephone number (404) 893-7122.