Joint DEA And Chicago Police Department Investigation Leads To 38lb Meth Seizure
Three Individuals Charged with Narcotics Offenses
CHICAGO, IL. - The Chicago Police (CPD) and Drug Enforcement (DEA) collaborated to seize a total of 38 pounds of methamphetamine this past weekend. The CPD estimates the street value of the drug seizure at $5.6 million. As a result of the joint mission, three offenders were charged with state narcotics offenses and their vehicles were seized in connection to the investigation.
“The Chicago Police Department shares a deep commitment with the DEA in our mission to seize drugs and arrest alleged drug traffickers,” said Jack Riley, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Chicago Field Division. “Our combined efforts resulted in thwarting 38 pounds of methamphetamine from hitting the streets.”
The following individuals were charged in Cook County:
- Gabriel Gomes, 25, of the 4400 block of S. Komensky Ave. was charged with methamphetamine delivery and possession of methamphetamine.
- Jose Mejia, 38, of the 9700 block of S. Avenue L, was charged with methamphetamine delivery.
- Cesar Ortiz, 32, of Mount Pleasant, Texas, was charged with possession of methamphetamine.
Members of the Chicago Police Narcotics Unit and Drug Enforcement Administration developed information regarding narcotics trafficking in Chicago and the Chicagoland area. On Friday, January 21, 2011, officers observed the delivery of approximately two pounds of methamphetamine in an alley in the vicinity of 4400 S. Komensky.
Officers continued their investigation and learned an additional 36 pounds of methamphetamine was inside of a residence near that location. The findings led to Gomes, Mejia, and Ortiz each being taken into custody and charged for their respective roles in the distribution of methamphetamine in the Chicagoland area.
In addition to the bulk recovery of methamphetamine, Chicago Police and DEA officers were able to seize two vehicles related to the offense. All three offenders were scheduled for bond court and already have appeared.
The defendants are presumed innocent and are entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
