The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s partnership with several federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies has resulted in several arrests and the seizure of millions of dollars in illegal street narcotics.
Approximately one year ago, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began investigating the trafficking of illicit drugs by a cartel called Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generacion (CJNG). The DEA began working with the CMPD, the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), and the Mecklenburg County District Attorney’s Office to gather additional intelligence and evidence.
As a result of the investigation, 18 arrests were made in Charlotte, NC and California. Additionally, 40 pounds of heroin, 20 pounds of methamphetamine, and more than 15 pounds of cocaine were recovered for a combined total street value of approximately $3.5 million, according to CMPD. Additionally, a firearm and $8,000 in cash were also recovered during the course of the investigation. The case is being prosecuted by the Mecklenburg County District Attorney’s Office.
The CMPD partners with additional law enforcement agencies as members of the DEA Task Force. The task force investigates high-level drug trafficking, both domestically and internationally. This task force is comprised of the CMPD; the Cornelius, Monroe, Mint Hill, Huntersville, and Pineville Police Departments; and the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office. Several federal partners also assisted with this investigation.
“The CMPD’s involvement with the DEA Task Force underscores our commitment to combatting the opioid crisis plaguing our community,” said Officer Blake Page of CMPD. “The success of this investigation is a testament to the dedicated, hard work of the CMPD and our partners.”
