News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 18, 2006
Contact: DEA Special Agent Terri Wyatt
Number: (214) 366-6900

55 Arrested From Local Texas Drug Ring

JAN 18 -- (Sherman, Texas) - DEA Special Agent-in-Charge James Capra, United States Attorney Matthew D. Orwig and other law enforcement officials today announced at least 55 arrests in connection with a drug trafficking ring in Collin and Dallas Counties. The arrests mark the final phase in this investigation into the sale and distribution of marijuana, methamphetamine, and cocaine in the Eastern and Northern Districts of Texas.

According to prosecutors, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration and Dallas Police Department's investigation into a methamphetamine and cocaine distribution ring originating in Dallas County began in January 2003. The conspirators utilized various suppliers to acquire large quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine to sell and recruited others to distribute the drugs. The investigation also revealed links to drug suppliers and distributors in Tyler and Lubbock, Texas.

“Cooperative law enforcement endeavors such as these ensure that criminal drug trafficking organizations are dismantled,” DEA's Capra said. “This, in turn, has a significant impact on our community by making our neighborhoods a safer place for us all.”

Early this morning, officers from several local, state and federal agencies began executing search warrants and arresting the individuals as well as seizing narcotics, drug proceeds, vehicles and firearms associated with the drug trafficking activity. Authorities will continue to make arrests during the day.

United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Texas, Matthew D. Orwig, praised the work of the ATF, DEA and Dallas Police Department for their efforts to deal with methamphetamine and cocaine, "Federal, State and local authorities executed a complex operative in dismantling this organization. I am grateful for the professionalism and dedication shown by these officers and agents."

Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Ronnie Carter stated "This investigation shows ATF's commitment to combat violent street gangs and the havoc they inflict on the community."

If convicted, many of the defendants face a maximum sentence of life in prison. Other defendants face between 40 and 300 years in prison.

The investigation, early morning arrests and searches were led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Also participating in the investigation and arrests of these defendants were officers from Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Dallas Police Department and the United States Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ernest Gonzalez is prosecuting the case.

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