Combined federal and state investigation in Idaho leads to arrests in massive drug trafficking conspiracy

BOISE, Idaho – A large-scale investigation by the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) has resulted in the federal indictments of 10 Magic Valley suspects on drug trafficking charges. An additional 10 suspects have been charged in Idaho state courts for their actions in connection with the conspiracy.

“DEA stands with our partners in the Idaho State Police and law enforcement across the state to stop criminals and hold them accountable,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “The Magic Valley is safer today because of our collective efforts.”

According to the indictments, the suspects possessed and distributed large quantities of methamphetamine throughout the Magic Valley area. During these investigations and arrests, federal and state law enforcement seized more than 30 pounds of methamphetamine. According to court records, several of these individuals allegedly traveled to Arizona and California to obtain methamphetamine, which they then took to Idaho for distribution.

“This investigation is the result of excellent partnerships and teamwork between local law enforcement in the Magic Valley, the Idaho State Police and the DEA,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “I am grateful for the trust they have placed in my office to work hand-in-hand with them to keep their communities safe.”

As part of this OCDETF investigation, the following individuals have been charged with federal drug violations:

• Oscar Alejandro Perez-Gomez32, of Jerome, was charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, five counts of distribution of methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
• Patrick Delacruz40, of Jerome, was charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
• Leonardo Espinoza-Romero31, of Jerome, was charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine;
• Daniel D. Thomas47, of Jerome, was charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine;
• Artemio Morgan Hurtado, jr.34, of Shoshone, was charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and using a communication facility to commit or facilitate a crime;
• Luis Enrique Gonzalez40, of Jerome, was charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, distribution of methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
• Jesus Arturo Torres-Herrera36, of Twin Falls, was charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
• Raquel Mei28, of Twin Falls was charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
• Robert Troglia, 52, of Jerome, was charged with distribution of methamphetamine;
• Liliana Morales-Caliz34, of Jerome, was charged with four counts of distribution of methamphetamine;

The investigation also included nine other suspects charged in state indictments for narcotics possession, methamphetamine trafficking and other crimes.

Federal drug distribution charges carry mandatory minimum prison sentences, depending on the amount and type of drugs distributed. Maximum prison sentences range from 20 years to life in federal prison.

“We are proud that the state of Idaho works so well with our federal partners to protect the public,” said Governor Brad Little. “The goal of our Operation Esto Perpetua initiative is to provide law enforcement with the training and tools they need to keep Idaho safe. Today’s announcement of the federal indictment of drug traffickers shows that what Idaho is doing is working.”

“The successful investigation and prosecution of this case was the result of tireless dedication, cooperation and teamwork,” said Col. Bill Gardiner, Director of ISP. “By working with numerous local jurisdictions and federal agencies, resources were leveraged, information was shared and criminals were brought to justice. These collaborative efforts are critical to the ongoing effort to protect communities from the devastating effects of drug trafficking and should provide residents with a sense of safety and security.”

The cases were primarily investigated by the Idaho State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration. In addition to the work of these agencies, U.S. Attorney Hurwit thanked the following agencies for their assistance in the investigations and arrests of the individuals named above: Twin Falls County Sheriff’s Office, Twin Falls Police Department, Twin Falls County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, Jerome County Sheriff’s Office, Jerome Police Department, Jerome County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, Cassia County Sheriff’s Office, Cassia County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, Minidoka County Sheriff’s Office, Minidoka County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, and the Blaine County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Booker and Francis Zebari are prosecuting the cases.

These charges are part of an investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by utilizing a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

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