News from DEA, Domestic Field Divisions, Los Angeles News Releases, 10/25/06

News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 25, 2006

Five arrested for distributing cocaine and methamphetamine

(SANTA ANA, CA) – The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Orange County Resident Office, in conjunction with the Orange Police Department (OPD) yesterday announced the culmination of a 20-month investigation of an Orange County based drug ring. This investigation, known as Operation Slip Knot, targeted an organization believed to be responsible for distributing cocaine and methamphetamine throughout California, Oregon and Hawaii. Yesterday, agents and officers conducted three search warrants resulting in the arrest of five individuals and the seizure of approximately one pound of methamphetamine, a quantity of U.S. Currency, two residences and six vehicles. Since February 2005, this investigation resulted in an additional two arrests and the seizure of approximately 3.5 pounds of methamphetamine, a small quantity of cocaine and $35,525 of U.S. Currency.

Ralph W. Partridge, DEA Acting Special Agent in Charge stated, “The arrests and seizures yesterday will help to curb the devastating impact of methamphetamine on our communities. This successful investigation is a great example of the results that can be achieved by local and federal law enforcement working together and combining resources.”

The following individuals were arrested and will appear in Federal Court to face drug charges: Mauricio Cortez, 46 years old, Orange; Juan Contreras, 46 years old, Orange; Mario Orozco, 53 years old, Orange; Lourdes Contreras, 44 years old, Orange; Jose Luis Contreras, 51 years old, Orange.

This case was investigated by agents and officers from the DEA, OPD, and the Internal Revenue Service. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Federal Bureau of Investigation also participated in today’s enforcement operations.

Further information will be disseminated to press outlets when available for release. Please forward any questions to DEA Los Angeles Public Information Officer Sarah Pullen at (213) 621-6827.