The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has brought charges against 21 people in connection with an alleged conspiracy to traffic more than 46 pounds of methamphetamine from Mexico throughout the Inland Empire. Twelve defendants are expected to appear in the United States District Court in Riverside and downtown Los Angeles on Wednesday, June 9.

The DOJ charged 2 defendants in March (1 pleaded guilty and 1 is awaiting trial), arrested and charged 12 defendants on June 9, 2021, has 3 defendants in federal or state custody on unrelated charges, and is still searching for 4 defendants fleeing from custody.

What Are the Charges?

In its latest federal indictment, the DOJ brought 19 charges of “conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine,” an offense that carries at least 10 years in prison and up to life imprisonment. All defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Still, law enforcement seized more than 150 pounds of methamphetamine during this investigation, which could be used as evidence. Allegedly, the lead defendants were smuggling or planning to smuggle methamphetamine across the U.S. ports of Calexico and San Ysidro. Some defendants also face charges of “conspiracy to import methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, being a felon in possession of ammunition, and attempted international money laundering.”

All of these charges are extremely serious, and if convicted, the defendants will face time in prison. Any of the 21 people facing charges should seek a defense attorney immediately, as should anyone charged with similar crimes.

Get Help With Federal Drug Charges

If you or someone you love has been charged with federal drug crimes, please do not hesitate to contact Attorney Diane C. Bass for a free, 1-hour consultation. Ms. Bass has over 25 years of legal experience in criminal defense, an outstanding reputation amongst clients and peers, and extensive knowledge and experience with federal cases.

She has handled some of the largest cases in the Central District of California and is not afraid of big cases with serious charges and penalties. As the founding attorney of our firm, Ms. Bass will not only care about you but also fight for you and do everything in her power to achieve the best possible results in your case.

Please call us at (949) 264-0696 or contact us online today – we are available 7 days a week for emergencies.