News Release [print friendly page]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 10, 2008
Contact: Matthew Taylor
Public Information Officer
915-832-6000

Cocaine Trafficking Organization Dismantled in an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Investigation

JUL 10 -- On June 27, agents from the DEA Midland Resident Office arrested Efrain Estrada Benavidez and 21 other individuals, resulting in the dismantlement his cocaine trafficking organization. Since 2002, the Estrada Benavidez organization distributed at least 16 kilograms of cocaine per month in Texas and New Mexico. In addition to the arrests, this 12-month Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force investigation has resulted in the seizure of 16 ounces of cocaine, $70,414 in U.S. currency, and one firearm. The DEA conducted this investigation with the Ector and Midland County (Texas) Sheriff’s Offices, and the Midland, Texas Police Department.