News Releases

Multi-agency probe dismantles international drug trafficking ring

SNOHOMISH, Wash. — Federal officers and local police took 23 suspects into custody and executed multiple search warrants Thursday in an enforcement action aimed at dismantling an international drug trafficking organization operating out Snohomish County, Wash.

The probe, spearheaded by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), targeted a criminal ring suspected of transporting drugs in hidden compartments from Mexico through Arizona and California into King, Pierce, Skagit and Snohomish counties for distribution. To date, the investigation has led to the seizure of more than 20 pounds of heroin, more than 30 pounds of methamphetamine, nearly $200,000 in cash and 31 firearms – including 10 assault-style rifles.

In addition to HSI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Snohomish Police Department were also prominently involved in the case. Other agencies that provided significant support in the investigation include the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Seattle, Lake Stevens, Everett, Monroe, Marysville and Snohomish County police departments; the Eastside Narcotics Task Force; the Snohomish Regional Drug Task Force; the Skagit County Interlocal Drug Enforcement Unit; the Washington State Patrol; and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Washington will be prosecuting the case.

The Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force provided federal funding to the federal and state law enforcement agencies involved in the case.