Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the arrest of three major fentanyl traffickers in Los Angeles, along with the seizure of nearly $55 million worth of fentanyl. This operation was conducted by the California Department of Justice (DOJ) in collaboration with the Downey Police Department and the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office.

The investigation led to the confiscation of 20 kilograms of powder fentanyl, five kilograms of heroin, 10 pounds of methamphetamine, one kilogram of cocaine, two firearm suppressors, and narcotics packaging. Attorney General Bonta emphasized the importance of this action against 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 stated.

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman highlighted fentanyl's impact on public health and safety. "Fentanyl remains the leading cause of death in accidental drug overdose cases in Los Angeles County," Hochman said. He expressed gratitude towards his team and partner agencies for their role in this significant seizure.

Downey Police Chief Scott Loughner reiterated the deadly impact of fentanyl on communities and praised collaborative efforts for saving lives through such operations.

The traffickers have been charged under California Health and Safety Code Sections 11351 and 11352. One individual also has a pending federal warrant for narcotics-related charges. The case will be prosecuted by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

In response to an increasing fentanyl epidemic, California DOJ developed a Fentanyl Enforcement Program in 2023, aiming to dismantle distribution networks across key regions including San Diego, Los Angeles, and Dublin.

It is important to note that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty as per legal proceedings.