Authorities decapitated a massive narcotics supply chain funneling drugs into the U.S. from Mexico, arresting nine Dominican nationals who now face deportation.
An investigation launched in September by federal authorities ended in multiple arrests and drug seizures this week, under the direction of Attorney General Jeff Sessions. The investigation focused on dismantling the Valdez Drug Trafficking Organization, run by three brothers living in New England under stolen identities. Seven other suspects were arrested in the busts, also using falsified documentation, and will face deportation.
The operation employed smugglers to transport massive quantities of heroin and cocaine from Mexico across the border, which was then stored for sale at stash houses in Cranston and Woonsocket, R.I. The Valdez brothers, who reentered the U.S after a previous deportation, distributed the drugs in Providence, Boston and Hartford, Connecticut.
“As alleged, the Valdez brothers trafficked in all types of drugs and profited from the addictions that have destroyed lives and torn apart families here in New England,” Harold H. Shaw, special agent in charge of the FBI Boston Field Division, said in a statement Thursday. “This case illustrates that drug cartels based in foreign countries will go anywhere to distribute their deadly products.”
While executing multiple search warrants this week, authorities seized nearly four kilograms of heroin, 1.5 kilograms of fentanyl, two kilograms of cocaine, 155 grams of crack cocaine, more than 100 pounds of cutting agents, $95,000 in cash, nine vehicles and 12 kilograms of an unidentified powdered that is currently being tested. Officials said five of the vehicles seized were outfitted with various smuggling compartments.
“The President has made the dismantlement and destruction of drug cartels a top priority, and cases like these are integral in that effort,” Attorney General Jeff Sessions said in a statement Thursday. “When law enforcement – federal, state and local – work together like these partners in Rhode Island, we will be one step closer to fulfilling this goal and protecting our communities.”
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