Hernandez Crew Busted for Meth & Heroin Ring

Thirteen alleged kingpins of a meth and heroin distribution ring were apprehended in Pierce County, Washington, as federal agents led a sweeping operation that netted 50 pounds of crystal meth, $160,000 in cash, and seven firearms. The investigation, spearheaded by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), revealed a lab in Spanaway where liquid meth was processed into highly addictive crystal methamphetamine.

“This criminal group built a business on distributing drugs that destroy lives and families,” said U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan. “Law enforcement removed over 66 pounds of crystal meth and more than two and a half pounds of heroin from the streets.”

The DEA’s wire-tap investigation identified members of a conspiracy involved in distributing substantial quantities of drugs across Western Washington. The suspects, including Luis Hernandez, 58, and Jaime Hernandez, 29, faced charges in U.S. District Court in Tacoma after their arrest.

Special Agent in Charge Matthew G. Barnes highlighted the significance of methamphetamine and heroin in the Pacific Northwest: “This organization was not only distributing these drugs but also converting meth into a more potent form,” he said.

The operation, which began with 17 search warrants on February 23-24, 2014, resulted in the seizure of 66 pounds of crystal meth, 2.5 pounds of heroin, $310,000, 25 vehicles with drug and cash hidden compartments, and seven firearms, including three stolen.

Those charged include: Luis Hernandez, 58, Tacoma; Juan Hernandez, 34, Kent; Jaime Hernandez, 29, Tacoma; Ruvisela Hernandez, 35, Lakewood; Pedro Peralta, 41, Lakewood; Ezequiel Sanchez-Carmona, 21, Tacoma; Walter Vargas, 38, Tacoma; Andrew Gardee, 23, Puyallup; Britney Sikkenга, 21, Puyallup; Michael Eckernode, 38, Tacoma; Gerardo Garcia, 20, Oakland, California; Carlos Mesina-Orozco, 22, Tacoma; Jorge Orozco-Magana, 37, Tacoma.