United States Drug Enforcement Administration

PHOENIX - DEA agents and detectives with the Scottsdale Police (PD) Drug Enforcement (DEU) simultaneously executed seven search warrants across Phoenix today, as part of a long-term joint investigation into a large-scale methamphetamine trafficking organization responsible for the monthly distribution of hundred-pound quantities of meth across the U.S.  During the warrants, one residence that operated as a stash location also served as a provider for private in-home childcare.  Approximately six children were cared for at the residence that doubled as a meth stash site.

“It is unfathomable that innocent children would be exposed to the inherent dangers of drug trafficking by those individuals entrusted with their care,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Doug Coleman. “DEA and all law enforcement agencies are committed to the safety of the community first and foremost.  We will continue our focus on ridding the streets of the traffickers who hide in our neighborhoods, we will target their illicit activities and bring them to justice.”

DEA’s investigation into this Mexico-sourced organization began in the summer of 2015 with an initial enforcement operation that netted a one-time seizure of 85 pounds of methamphetamine.  To date, DEA has arrested four subjects, seized over 90 pounds of methamphetamine, 33 grams of cocaine, $50,000, two vehicles, and nine weapons, including two rifles.  During today’s warrants, agents arrested five subjects, seized an additional five pounds of methamphetamine, ½ pound of cocaine, four handguns, two rifles, a hand grenade, four military style flak jackets/body armor and $30,000 in cash.

DEA and the Scottsdale PD DEU were further supported today by Scottsdale PD’s High Enforcement Arrest Team, Repeat Offender Unit and tactical teams from Phoenix PD, Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, and Avondale PD.  Prosecution of this investigation will be pursued by the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office.