20 people charged in major drug investigation – LocalNews8.com

BOISE, Idaho (US Attorney's Press Release) – A large-scale investigation by the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) has resulted in the indictment of 10 Magic Valley defendants in federal court on drug trafficking charges, US Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today. An additional 10 defendants have been indicted in Idaho state courts for their actions related to the conspiracy.

“This investigation is the result of outstanding partnerships and teamwork between local law enforcement in the Magic Valley, the Idaho State Police and the DEA,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “I am grateful for the trust they have placed in my office to work hand-in-hand with them to ensure the safety of their communities.”

According to the indictment, the defendants possessed and distributed large quantities of methamphetamine throughout the Magic Valley area. During these investigations and arrests, federal and state law enforcement seized over 30 pounds of methamphetamine. According to court documents, several of these individuals traveled to Arizona and California to obtain methamphetamine, which they brought back to Idaho for distribution.

As part of this OCDETF investigation, the following individuals were charged with violations of the federal drug law:

• Oscar Alejandro Perez-Gomez32, of Jerome, was charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, five counts of distribution of methamphetamine, and one count of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute;
• Patrick Delacruz40, of Jerome, was charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
• Leonardo Espinoza-Romero31, of Jerome, was charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine;
• Daniel D. Thomas47, of Jerome, was charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine;
• Artemio Morgan Hurtado, Jr.34, of Shoshone, was charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and use of a communication facility to commit or facilitate a crime;
• Luis Enrique Gonzalez40, of Jerome, was charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, distribution of methamphetamine, and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
• Jesus Arturo Torres-Herrera36, of Twin Falls, was charged with possession of methamphetamine with intent to resell;
• Rachel May28, of Twin Falls was charged with possession of methamphetamine with intent to resell;
• Robert Troglia, 52, of Jerome, was charged with trafficking in methamphetamine;
• Liliana Morales-Caliz34, of Jerome, was charged with four counts of trafficking in methamphetamine;

The investigation also included 10 other defendants charged in state cases with possession of controlled substances, trafficking in methamphetamine and other crimes.

Federal drug trafficking charges carry mandatory minimum prison sentences depending on the amount and type of drugs sold, with maximum sentences ranging from up to 20 years to life in a federal prison.

“The DEA stands with its partners at the Idaho State Police and law enforcement agencies across the state to stop criminals and hold them accountable,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “The Magic Valley is safer today because of our joint efforts.”

“We are proud that the State of Idaho works so well with our federal partners to protect the public,” said Governor Brad Little. “The goal of our Operation Esto Perpetua initiative is to equip law enforcement with the training and tools they need to keep Idaho safe. Today's announcement of federal indictments against drug traffickers shows that what Idaho is doing is working.”

“The successful investigation and prosecution of this case was the result of tireless dedication, collaboration and teamwork,” said Colonel Bill Gardiner, ISP Director. “Working with numerous local jurisdictions and federal agencies has leveraged resources, shared intelligence and brought criminals to justice. These joint efforts are critical to the ongoing effort to protect communities from the devastating effects of drug trafficking and should provide residents with a sense of security and protection.”

The cases were primarily investigated by the Idaho State Police and Drug Enforcement Administration. In addition to the work of these agencies, U.S. Attorney Hurwit thanked the following agencies for their assistance in the investigation and arrest of the above-named individuals: Twin Falls County Sheriff's Office, Twin Falls Police Department, Twin Falls County Prosecuting Attorney's Office, Jerome County Sheriff's Office, Jerome Police Department, Jerome County Prosecuting Attorney's Office, Cassia County Sheriff's Office, Cassia County Prosecuting Attorney's Office, Minidoka County Sheriff's Office, Minidoka County Prosecuting Attorney's Office, and Blaine County Sheriff's Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Booker and Francis Zebari are prosecuting these cases.

U.S. Attorney Hurwit thanked all law enforcement agencies and prosecutors for their hard work and strong teamwork in ensuring justice is done.