Denver, Colorado – In a major blow to the city’s narcotics trade, the DEA-led Denver OCDETF Strike Force, along with local and state law enforcement, has taken down a Mexican-led drug trafficking organization responsible for distributing large quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine in the state.
The operation, which was the result of a one-year investigation, involved the arrest of 17 defendants, including the lead defendant, Jose Tapia-Rubio, also known as ‘Don Chequetas’, a 58-year-old resident of Aurora but from Mexico.
Tapia-Rubio has been charged with operating a Continuing Criminal Enterprise (CCE), also known as a ‘Drug King Pin’, which carries a sentence of not less than 20 years and up to life in federal prison, as well as a $2,000,000 fine.
According to the indictment, between February 1, 2016, through April 15, 2017, Tapia-Rubio and the 16 additional defendants knowingly and intentionally conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine, and 500 grams or more of a substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.
The indictment also alleges that the defendants transported the drugs in vehicles with secret compartments from Mexico to Colorado, with some of the proceeds being distributed back to Mexico through money transfer stations, including one at the El Rancho Market in Aurora.
As part of the operation, the government is seeking a $2,000,000 money judgment as well as the seizure of two Aurora properties used as stash houses.
The Denver OCDETF Strike Force was led by the DEA, with assistance from the Colorado U.S. Attorney’s Office, Aurora Police Department, and other local and state law enforcement agencies.
The takedown is a significant victory in the fight against organized crime and narcotics trafficking in the state, and highlights the importance of aggressive law enforcement cooperation in dismantling these organizations.
The defendants are expected to appear in court in the coming weeks to face charges, with some already in custody and others considered fugitives.
Key Facts
- State: Colorado
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Organized Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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