Gruesome evidence of the heroin scourge plaguing neighborhoods in central Ohio has been unearthed as authorities today announced the arrest of 16 suspects, believed to be part of a massive heroin trafficking organization.
The alleged conspirators, whose ages range from 19 to 60, were apprehended between June 10 and today following a year-long investigation by the DEA, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Columbus Police, and the DEA Southwest Border Task Force.
According to U.S. Attorney Carter M. Stewart, the defendants are charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin, a crime punishable by at least five and up to 40 years in prison. All defendants have been ordered held without bond until trial.
During the course of the investigation, authorities seized over 11 kilograms of heroin, three firearms, and more than $115,000 in cash. Eight search warrants were executed since June 10, yielding the devastating haul.
Among those arrested are Alonso Ernesto TORRES MONTANO, 25, of Grove City; Luis Alberto TORRES MONTANO, 30, of Grove City; Santiago Manuel AZDEITIA, 21, of Columbus; Ivon Itzel TRUJILLO CERVANTES, 30, of Grove City; and Johana Yazmin DIAZ LOPEZ, 25, of Columbus, along with 11 other individuals.
U.S. Attorney Stewart commended Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Hunter and Kevin Kelley for their tireless efforts in representing the United States in this case.
While charges contained in a complaint are allegations, all defendants should be presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
As this investigation continues, one thing is clear: the heroin scourge will be met with unrelenting determination by law enforcement agencies committed to reclaiming our communities from the grip of addiction and violence.
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Key Facts
- State: Ohio
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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