URGENT UPDATE: Federal authorities have dismantled a major drug trafficking operation that allegedly transported a staggering 22 tons of cocaine from Los Angeles to New York City. Five individuals were arrested, including key ringleaders, as part of a sophisticated scheme involving luxury freight companies.
This operation, which began as early as 2013, reportedly funneled over $315 million worth of cocaine and cash across state lines. The arrests, made on Tuesday, are part of an ongoing investigation that has revealed the extent of this extensive drug network.
The alleged leaders, David “Gotti” Rodriguez and Raymond “White Boy” O’Connell, are accused of using a downtown Los Angeles jewelry store as a front for their operations. Authorities claim they orchestrated the purchase and storage of cocaine in bulk, distributing it throughout the East Coast.
Officials from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California confirmed that 800 parcels containing cocaine were shipped to New York, while an additional 500 parcels with drugs and cash returned to Los Angeles. Law enforcement has seized over $2.8 million in cash, along with 1,600 pounds of cocaine, luxury vehicles, and high-end jewelry linked to the defendants.
The recent arrests include Nohely Jimenez-Ruiz and Lorna “Cookie” Martinez from Los Angeles, along with Jamel Donald Levy, Bruce Adams, and Cindy Rachel Imbert from New York and New Jersey. Each faces serious charges, including conspiracy to distribute and possess cocaine and money laundering.
If convicted, Rodriguez and O’Connell could face mandatory life sentences in federal prison, according to the statement from authorities. The other defendants are also facing various drug trafficking and money laundering charges.
As law enforcement continues to investigate, they are searching for additional suspects believed to be involved in this extensive operation. The implications of this bust are significant, as it not only disrupts a major drug pipeline but also highlights the growing challenge of drug trafficking in the United States.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops. The fight against drug trafficking remains critical to public safety, and authorities are committed to bringing all involved to justice.
