A coordinated investigation involving 10 law enforcement agencies has led to the conviction of 11 individuals in Idaho on federal drug trafficking charges. Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott confirmed that the multi-agency effort was part of the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) initiative. The case stemmed from an initial tip received by Idaho State Police detectives in early 2023 about Austin Lee's involvement in distributing significant quantities of fentanyl in southern Idaho.
Investigations unearthed a larger network, including Lee's Mexico-based supplier and recent parolees recruited to transport drugs from the U.S.-Mexico border for distribution in Idaho. Subsequently, four co-conspirators, Jamie Coltrin, Jenika Johnson, Brandon Dana, and Daniel Coltrin, were identified alongside Lee through controlled drug purchases.
In July 2023, the expanded investigation pointed to additional conspirators: Arafat Ramirez, Rosa Ramirez, Laila Ramirez-Martinez, Sammy Martinez, and Rachel Dixon. The case culminated in the seizure of over 48,000 fentanyl pills and four pounds of methamphetamine, disrupting the drug flow into Idaho.
The convicted individuals received varying sentences, with Austin Chad Lee and Arafat Ramirez each receiving 140 months in prison for conspiracy and distribution respectively. Brandon Aaron Dana was sentenced to 120 months, while Tina Jane Morris received 97 months for possession with intent to distribute. Sammy Davey Martinez, Jamie Lee Coltrin, Jenika Ann Johnson, Daniel Ross Coltrin, Rosa Ramirez, received terms ranging from 25 to 78 months. Rachel Dixon and Laila Vanessa Ramirez-Martinez were sentenced to probation.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott stated, “The success of this investigation is the direct result of cooperation between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.” Governor Brad Little commented, “The goal of our Operation Esto Perpetua initiative is to equip law enforcement with the training and tools they need to keep Idaho safe.”
Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division, David. F. Reames remarked, "The amount of fentanyl seized in this case had the potential to kill more than 46,000 people."
The case was primarily led by the Idaho State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration, with support from several local sheriff's offices and police departments.
The effort is part of a larger national initiative, Operation Take Back America, aimed at dismantling transnational criminal organizations. The OCDETF program uses a multi-agency strategy to combat the most serious drug trafficking and criminal networks threatening the U.S.