Law enforcement agencies announce discovery of drug trafficking in Magic Valley

JEROME, Idaho – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho announced the dismantling of a large-scale organized drug trafficking operation, resulting in 19 people being arrested and charged.

Local, state and federal law enforcement agencies filled the Idaho State Police office in Jerome to announce the large-scale crackdown on meth cases that has ties to California, Arizona and Mexico.

“As a result of the investigation, over 30 pounds of methamphetamine was seized,” said U.S. Attorney for Idaho Josh Hurwit. “And we believe a methamphetamine pipeline leading into this community and valley has been shut down.”

Hurwit said the 30 pounds of meth seized was equivalent to tens of thousands of cans stolen from the street.

According to court documents, several members of the operation traveled to California and Arizona to bring Mexican-made meth to Idaho.

“Quite frankly, in my opinion, this should deter any high-level criminal organization or make them think again about what they are going to do and whether they are going to market their product here in Idaho,” said ISP Director Col. Bill Gardiner.

Of the 19 detainees, 10 face federal charges and the other nine face state charges. Those allegedly involved in the operation face a variety of charges, including conspiracy, possession and distribution of meth and cocaine.

The large-scale investigation, which began in 2023, involved nearly every law enforcement agency in the Magic Valley. State police and federal agencies were also involved, including the DEA.

“Without the fantastic partnerships we have here in Idaho, this case would never have happened,” said Ron Deist, assistant special agent in charge of the DEA Spokane District.

Governor Brad Little said the raid sends a clear message: The drug epidemic is a problem that Idaho law enforcement takes seriously.

“Our message is: If you are an international cartel based in Mexico, you should not send your people to Idaho because they will end up in prison,” said Governor Little.

The following individuals have been charged with violations of the federal drug law:

• Oscar Alejandro Perez-Gomes, 32, of Jerome:
  • Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, five counts of distribution of methamphetamine, one count of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute.
• Patrick Delacruz, 40, from Jerome:
  • Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
• Leonardo Espinoza-Romero, 31, from Jerome:
  • Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
• Daniel D. Thomas, 47, of Jerome:
  • Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine.
• Artemio Morgan Hurtado Jr., 34, of Shoshone:
  • Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, use of a communications facility to commit or facilitate a crime.
• Luis Enrique Gonzales, 40, of Jerome:
  • Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, distribution of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
• Jesus Arturo Torres-Herrera, 36, of Twin Falls:
  • Possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute.
• Raquel May, 28, of Twin Falls:
  • Possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute.
• Robert Troglia, 52, from Jerome:
  • Distribution of methamphetamine.
• Liliana Morales-Caliz, 34, from Jerome:
  • Four counts of methamphetamine trafficking.