Fidel Moreno-Dominguez, SFV Narcotics and Firearms Ring, San Fernan…

Thirteen gang members, convicted felons and their associates have been indicted in a sweeping federal crackdown targeting a sprawling narcotics and firearms network in the San Fernando Valley. The operation, led by ATF and LAPD, culminated in nine separate federal indictments and the early-morning arrest of ten defendants. Two remain fugitives, including Walter Wilfredo Lagos, 34, of Palmdale, while one defendant is already in state custody.

The takedown follows a seven-month undercover probe dubbed Crime Area Gun Enforcement (CAGE), which ran from February through July. Using confidential informants and undercover agents, law enforcement infiltrated a violent criminal network trafficking methamphetamine, crack cocaine and heroin while illegally selling and manufacturing assault-style rifles. Raids today seized 13 additional firearms, including restricted weapons like short-barrel rifles and silencers, along with two and a half pounds of meth, a quarter pound of crack and a quarter pound of heroin.

Fidel Moreno-Dominguez, 47, of Palmdale, is charged with conspiracy to distribute one pound of methamphetamine, distribution of meth, and being a felon in possession of a firearm following a prior narcotics conviction. Walter Wilfredo Lagos, 34, of Palmdale, faces the same drug charges and is currently at large. Authorities warn the public not to approach Lagos and urge anyone with information to contact ATF.

Robert Steven Carrillo, 31, of Redlands, and Alexander Ramirez Manzo, also known as “Dozer,” 34, of Pacoima, are charged with conspiracy to deal in firearms without a license, engaging in the business of dealing in firearms without a license, and possession of unregistered firearms. Manzo is additionally charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm, stemming from prior convictions for burglary and sale of a controlled substance.

Brandon C. Torres, 30, of Van Nuys, faces charges of engaging in the business of dealing in firearms without a license. The investigation uncovered two clandestine operations where AR-15- and AK-47-type rifles were being illegally assembled and sold. In total, the CAGE operation seized approximately 40 weapons and 20 pounds of methamphetamine, striking a major blow to underground arms and drug markets in the Valley.

“This operation has removed dangerous drugs from the black market and has shut off a source of illegal firearms that can cause so much violence and damage in our neighborhoods,” said U.S. Attorney Eileen M. Decker. ATF’s Eric Harden emphasized interagency collaboration: “We are targeting the criminal organizations that perpetrate violence.” LAPD Chief Charlie Beck added, “Removing even one gun from the streets means one less Angeleno robbed, shot, or murdered.”