News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 7, 2002

For further information, contact:
Jose Martinez, S/A DEA Public Affairs: 213-621-6714 or
John Fernandes, Associate Special Agent in Charge: 213-621-7033

MORE THAN 57 ARRESTED IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
METHAMPHETAMINE INVESTIGATION

photo - seized cars
Several of the 80 exotic cars seized as part of "Operation Living Large"
On August 8, 2002, the Drug Enforcement Administration, together with the Riverside County Sheriff's Department and the Riverside Police Department announced the arrests of more than 57 individuals in connection with a two-year investigation, which involved the manufacture and distribution of methamphetamine along with the distribution of ecstasy and laundering of drug proceeds.

The San Bernardino District Attorney's Office and Grand Jury handed down a total of twenty-eight indictments. On August 8th, thirteen (13) defendants were arrested in Southern California and 15 search warrants were served. During the course of the investigation, investigators seized over 33 pounds methamphetamine, 196 gallons of meth oil, 8 pounds of ice, 30,000 tablets of ecstasy, 100 pounds of pseudo ephedrine, approximately 80 exotic vehicles i.e., Mercedes, Jaguars, Ferrari's, Lamborghini, etc. Additionally, there were numerous weapons confiscated, illegal drugs and cash estimated at approximately $500,000.00 in U.S. Currency

In today's operation, the following law enforcement agencies assisted with serving the search warrants and confiscating evidence: San Bernardino Sheriff's Department, Fullerton Police Department, Anaheim Police Department, California Highway Patrol, Huntington Park Police Department, Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, IRNET and INCA.

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