News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 16, 2006
Contact: Joanna Zoltay
Number: 312-886-2597

Michigan City Drug Distribution Network Disrupted

NOV 16 -- (Michigan City, IN) – Gary G. Olenkiewicz, Special Agent in Charge of the Chicago Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) along with the Michigan City Police Drug Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) announced the dismantling of a Michigan City drug trafficking organization with ties to Chicago and Mexico. On Friday November 10, 2006, agents and task force officers arrested three men during a cocaine transaction at the Lowe’s parking lot in Michigan City, Indiana.

“These arrests are the result of cooperative law enforcement during an investigation that spanned 18 months,” stated Olenkiewicz. “The DEA takes pride in the partnership we have with the Michigan City Police Drug Task Force and will continue to work with them to disrupt the illegal livelihood of criminals peddling narcotics in the streets.”

Taken into custody on federal drug distribution charges were Robert J. Wood, of Michigan City, Indiana, and Alfredo aka “Shorty” Qunitero and Osbaldo Qunitero, both of Chicago, Illinois. A federal search warrant conducted on the residence of Wood led to the additional seizure of approximately two pounds of marijuana, several firearms and an undetermined amount of US Currency. Other assets are pending forfeiture proceedings.

Drug Task Force Commander Sgt. Tim Richardson said the lengthy investigation revealed that kilogram amounts of cocaine were being smuggled from Mexico to Chicago and ultimately into Michigan City. The investigation is ongoing and additional arrests are anticipated in the near future.

The case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Indiana.

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