Irma Elvira Cruz, known by aliases "Huzipol" and "Madre," has been extradited from Mexico to face charges in the United States. The 60-year-old was arraigned before Chief United States Magistrate Judge Russell G. Vineyard on federal charges related to cocaine trafficking.
Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie, Jr. stated, “Cruz allegedly played a critical role in the trafficking of hundreds of kilograms of cocaine into the United States.” He emphasized the significance of her extradition in holding her accountable for her alleged involvement in drug trafficking activities that affected local communities.
Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Division, highlighted the determination of law enforcement agencies like the DEA to combat drug traffickers who exploit community members for profit.
Steven N. Schrank, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Atlanta, added that Cruz's extradition showcases their commitment to dismantling international criminal networks involved in narcotics distribution.
The investigation began when U.S. law enforcement identified a Mexico-based drug organization importing cocaine from Colombia between 2013 and 2016. Cruz is alleged to have been responsible for quality control testing of cocaine destined for distribution in the United States.
In September 2015, authorities seized over 300 kilograms of cocaine after Cruz allegedly tested its purity at a stash house in Costa Rica. Despite these allegations, Cruz is presumed innocent until proven guilty at trial.
This case involves multiple law enforcement agencies including the DEA, U.S. Coast Guard, Navy, ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations, Border Patrol, DeKalb County Police Department, and Georgia State Patrol. It forms part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation aimed at eliminating top-tier criminal organizations threatening the United States.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas M. Forsyth III and Elizabeth M. Hathaway are leading the prosecution with former Assistant U.S. Attorney Lisa Tarvin having contributed previously.
For further details or inquiries about this case or OCDETF operations, contact information is available through official channels provided by the U.S Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia.