News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 19, 2006
Contact: William Hocker
(215) 861-3436

DEA Philadelphia Arrests Eight from
Roger Ortega Drug Trafficking Organization

PHILADELPHIA – DEA Philadelphia Special Agent-in-Charge James M. Kasson today announced the arrests of eight targets in an ongoing law enforcement investigation targeting members of the Roger Ortega crystal methamphetamine and cocaine trafficking organization. This organization is responsible for the distribution of large quantities of crystal methamphetamine and cocaine from Mexico to Southern Chester County, PA.

To date, Federal Agents executed five federal search and seizure warrants, arrested eight suspects and seized over 65 pounds of cocaine, 57 pounds of crystal methamphetamine and $530,000 in US currency. Two main targets of this investigation remain at large and federal arrest warrants have been issued for Rogelio “Roger” Ortega and his brother Luis Ortega. The Ortega brothers are responsible for the command and control of the organization.

“We will not rest until we end the scourge of drugs in our neighborhoods and communities," SAC Kasson said. "This case should give drug traffickers pause because they could be next. DEA will not relent until our streets are safe and these criminals are behind bars."

Anyone with information about Rogelio “Roger” Ortega or his brother Luis Ortega is asked to contact the Philadelphia Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration at (215) 861-3474.

FBI and ICE also participated in this investigation.

***Photos available***