Three individuals with longstanding fugitive status were apprehended in Puerto Rico on criminal charges connected to drug trafficking and violent offenses. Their arrests took place in the municipalities of San Juan and Carolina. The fugitive trio had been on the run since December 2024, facing charges under the United States v. Victor J. Pérez-Fernández, a.k.a. “La Cone/Vitu/Vitikin/Enano,” case.
The accused individuals, identified as Gerald O. Rodríguez-Rodríguez, Ángel L. Sanjurjo, and Ramsell Maldonado-Tatis, were detained by the FBI, Puerto Rico Police Bureau, and the Carolina Municipal Police Department. They face charges of conspiracy to possess and distribute controlled substances, including heroin, cocaine, marijuana, and fentanyl. Maldonado-Tatis additionally faces charges for possession of a machine gun in a drug trafficking crime.
U.S. Attorney Muldrow stated, “As alleged in the indictment, these individuals were engaged in violent crime and spread deadly drugs through our communities.” Muldrow emphasized the commitment to maintaining safety for the residents of Puerto Rico and accountability for those responsible for violence.
Devin J. Kowalski, the FBI’s Special Agent in Charge of the San Juan Field Office, reiterated the commitment to dismantling criminal networks. “The arrests carried out this morning reaffirm our unwavering commitment to dismantling criminal organizations,” Kowalski stated. He underscored the intent to persistently pursue justice in collaboration with local and federal partners to ensure community safety.
Charging documents reveal that this drug trafficking group operated near various public housing projects for significant profit, distributing multiple controlled substances. The organization, part of a network called The Alliance, collaborated to avoid conflicts and provide mutual support among members.
The case is being prosecuted by a team led by Assistant United States Attorney Alberto López-Rocafort. This effort is part of Operation Take Back America, a Justice Department initiative aimed at eliminating cartels and transnational criminal organizations while protecting communities from violent crime.