California Attorney General Rob Bonta, in collaboration with the Downey Police Department and Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman, announced the arrest of three major fentanyl traffickers in Los Angeles. The operation resulted in the seizure of nearly $55 million worth of fentanyl. The California Department of Justice (DOJ) and Downey Police Department conducted a long-term investigation leading to this outcome.
Attorney General Bonta emphasized the commitment to combating the opioid crisis: “Today’s announcement proves that the California Department of Justice is all-in when it comes to protecting California families from the dangers of fentanyl.” He thanked his team and partners for their efforts in removing fentanyl from communities.
District Attorney Nathan Hochman highlighted the severity of fentanyl's impact: “Fentanyl remains the leading cause of death in accidental drug overdose cases in Los Angeles County. Just 1 kilo of fentanyl has the potential to kill 500,000 people.” He expressed gratitude towards those involved in this case for their dedication.
Downey Police Chief Scott Loughner reiterated the importance of these operations: “Every time we take deadly drugs like fentanyl off the streets, lives are saved.”
The traffickers face charges under California Health and Safety Code Sections 11351 and 11352. One individual also has an extraditable federal warrant pending for narcotics. The case is being prosecuted by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.
In response to a growing epidemic, DOJ developed a Fentanyl Enforcement Program in 2023 with teams based in San Diego, Los Angeles, and Dublin, California. This program aims to dismantle fentanyl distribution networks across California.
B-roll footage from DOJ operations is available for viewing. It should be noted that criminal complaints contain allegations only; defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.