(FOX 5/KUSI) — The Justice Department unsealed five indictments and one complaint this week, charging 11 people with distributing drugs in San Diego County.
The 16-month investigation was a joint effort by the FBI San Diego Violent Crime Task Force – Gang Group and Homeland Security Investigations. Investigators from the San Diego Police Department, the California Department of Corrections, the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office Investigations and others also assisted in the operation.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office Southern District of California detailed how authorities targeted Asian Crips-affiliated drug dealers in Mira Mesa and other areas in an investigation that utilized undercover agents, wire taps, confidential sources and more.
On March 25, more than 200 law enforcement officials executed search warrants in National City, San Diego, Escondido and Ramona to arrest seven defendants. Four others were arrested in the days prior.
“We allege that these defendants turned neighborhoods into a marketplace for drugs and crime,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon. “By dismantling this network, we’re helping give the community back its streets.”
Authorities confiscated more than 11 pounds of methamphetamine and two firearms.
The defendants include Muriel Burless, 43, Eric Rose, 45, Roy Elazgui, 50, Rex Hernandez, 57, Antonio Gregorio Amposta, 52, Jesus Rodrigues, 49, Clyde Johnson, 64, Jeremy Espiritu, 36, Albert Mora, 54, Jason Quila, 45, and Priscilla Violante, 38.
Charges among the defendants include conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, which carries a maximum penalty of life in prison or a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and a $10 million fine. Other charges include distribution of more than five grams of methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute.
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