LOS ANGELES – In a massive coordinated effort, federal agents have apprehended five defendants in connection with an alleged multimillion-dollar drug trafficking organization (DTO). The group is accused of using luxury private shipping companies to transport over 20 tons of cocaine and $100 million in drug proceeds between Los Angeles and New York City.
The ringleaders, David Rodriguez, 45, a.k.a. ‘Gotti’ and ‘Fat Boy,’ and Raymond O’Connell, 39, a.k.a. ‘Sal’ and ‘White Boy,’ have been held since last year. Their alleged activities spanned several years, with Rodriguez and O’Connell directing the purchase and storage of cocaine in Los Angeles for East Coast distribution.
From a front office in the California Jewelry Mart, the DTO shipped locked plastic cases containing cocaine to New York’s Diamond District using high-value freight forwarding companies. They also directed the shipment of drug proceeds back to Los Angeles for laundering. At least 1,300 parcels were moved between the two cities, with over 22 tons of cocaine and $105 million in cash transactions.
During the investigation, law enforcement seized more than $2.8 million in cash and over 725 kilograms of cocaine. The DTO members are facing serious charges, including engaging in a continuing criminal enterprise, conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine, money laundering, and more. Conviction could lead to life imprisonment.
Among those arrested are Jamel Donald Levy, 52, Bruce Adams, 50, Cindy Rachel Imbert, 33, Nohely Jimenez-Ruiz, 30, and Lorna Martinez, 42, a.k.a. ‘Cookie.’ Ronell Sweat, 47, who pleaded guilty to a federal firearms charge last year, is also implicated.
The investigation continues as authorities seek Daniel Vega, 52, a.k.a. ‘Nice,’ and Gregory Antonio Benitez, 40, a.k.a. ‘G.,’ both of New York City. An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime; every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
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Key Facts
- State: California
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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