News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Mach 12, 2004

Three Arrested with Over a Pound of Cocaine

MAR 12--Phoenix, Arizona – On March 11, 2004, the Phoenix Division Mobile Enforcement Team (MET) of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in conjunction with the Phoenix Police Department Drug Enforcement Bureau (DEB) announced the seizure of over one pound of cocaine. The seizure was the result of a four week undercover operation that netted the arrest of three Mexican nationals and the seizure of a firearm and two vehicles.

The cocaine was wrapped in plastic wrap, presumably in preparation for sale on the street. The cocaine had a street value of approximately $10,500.

The defendants are being prosecuted by the Arizona Attorney General’s Office and are being charged with three (3) violations of 133408 A-7, Sale of a Dangerous Drug, a Class 2 Felony. If convicted, the defendants could receive a minimum sentence of five years.

The undercover operation is part of “Operation VIP” (Violence Impact Project), a Phoenix Police Department led program made up of Federal, State and local law enforcement agencies aimed toward reducing violent crime and improving the quality of life in the metropolitan area.

“This is another example that underscores the critical role of cooperation by local police and Federal law enforcement in making our communities a safer place”, said, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Anthony J. Coulson.