News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 5, 2006
Special Agent Dan Simmons , PIO
DEA San Diego Field Division
(858) 616-4166

Drug Trafficking Organization Dismantled

OCT 5 -- On Wednesday, October 4, 2006, DEA agents arrested 9 individuals, seized approximately three pounds of methamphetamine and confiscated approximately $30,000 in U.S. currency as a result of the execution of seven search warrants. Also seized as a result of the warrants were three weapons, two vehicles and two sets of ballistic body armor.

DEA Special Agent in Charge John S. Fernandes noted, “Unfortunately, there are those among us who simply refuse to acknowledge the obvious – drug trafficking will not go uncontested. When law enforcement officers wear body armor it serves a defensive purpose in the name of public safety. When drug dealers acquire body armor it is for offensive purposes and reflects patent defiance and evil intent.”

The arrest of these nine defendants, coupled with the arrests of numerous others during the past several weeks, effectively dismantled the Felipe CISNEROS drug trafficking organization. Street level dealers, cell heads and a source of supply were taken into custody during the course of this investigation. The group reportedly distributed multiple pounds of methamphetamine several times a week to buyers in the San Diego county area and distributed methamphetamine to Las Vegas and Omaha, Nebraska. This organization is believed to have sold over a $100,000 worth of methamphetamine a month.

Arrested:
Juan Manuel Medina-Valencia - Chula Vista
Roberto Maduena-Manjarez - Chula Vista
Jesus Benitez-Medina - Chula Vista
Andres Carbajal - Chula Vista
Oscar Estrada - El Cajon
Agustin Hirugami - San Diego
Jose Estrada, Jr. - National City
Eduardo Prado - National City
Omar Benzan - San Diego

B-roll available