⏱ 2 min read
Four Sacramento men, Balentin Quintero, Francisco Chavez, Steven Ortega, and Tavarius Montgomery, were involved in a large-scale cocaine, fentanyl, and methamphetamine distribution ring, operating in Sacramento between January and June 2026. The men sold controlled substances to undercover agents and confidential sources on multiple occasions, with Chavez agreeing to sell an ounce of fentanyl for $900 and Quintero selling 3 ounces of fentanyl for $3,300. The reasons behind their involvement in the drug trade are unclear, but the investigation led by the Drug Enforcement Administration has resulted in a 10-count indictment against the four men.
According to court documents, the men worked together to distribute the controlled substances, with Chavez obtaining fentanyl from Montgomery and Quintero selling it to a confidential source. Ortega, a felon with prior convictions, was also found to be in possession of multiple firearms, which he is prohibited from owning. The investigation has shed light on the complex network of drug distribution in Sacramento, with the four men playing key roles in the operation.
The indictment charges Quintero with one count of distribution of cocaine and four counts of distribution of fentanyl, while Chavez faces one count of distribution of cocaine, two counts of distribution of methamphetamine, and three counts of distribution of fentanyl. Ortega is charged with one count of distribution of fentanyl and one count of being a felon in possession of firearms, and Montgomery faces two counts of distribution of fentanyl.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole M. Vanek, and the outcome is pending. The investigation and indictment serve as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in California and the importance of cooperation between law enforcement agencies.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Drug Trafficking
- Defendant: fentanyl
- Location: CA
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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