News Release
February 17, 2004

Three Men Arrested with a Pound of Mexican Brown Heroin

FEB 17– Phoenix, Arizona – On February 11, 2004, the Phoenix Division-Task Force Group 22 of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), announced the seizure of over one pound of high-grade Mexican brown heroin. The seizure was the result of a two-month undercover operation that netted the arrest of three Mexican nationals (two of whom were illegal) and the seizure of two vehicles.

All three individuals tried to flee the scene, but were immediately apprehended by agents.

The heroin was of a high purity that had been wrapped in a zip-lock bag, presumably in preparation for sale on the street. The heroin had a street value of approximately $200,000.00.

The defendants are being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona. They are being charged with violation 21 USC 846, Conspiracy to distribute heroin. If convicted, the defendants could receive sentences of up to 20 years.

“This is another example of the crucial importance of working with local authorities to break up an important heroin ring and to make our communities safer and more secure,” said PIO Ramona Sanchez.