News Release [print friendly page]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 9, 2008
Contact: Jodie Underwood
Number: (206) 553-5443

Beaverton Ring Leader Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison
Methamphetamine Seizure One of the Largest in Oregon History

JUN 9 -- (Portland) – DEA Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Arnold R. Moorin and the United States Attorney for the District of Oregon, Karin J. Immergut, announced that Ricardo Mendoza-Morales of Beaverton, Oregon was sentenced to 300 months’ imprisonment following his guilty plea to a 10-count indictment of Conspiracy and Possession charges involving Methamphetamine, Heroin and Cocaine.

Mendoza-Morales was the undisputed leader of a multi-state poly-drug ring which obtained its drugs from Mexico and California for distribution in Oregon. In 2005, law enforcement arrested nine members of the organization and seized 40 pounds of methamphetamine, two kilograms of cocaine, vehicles containing hidden compartments, weapons and approximately $190,000 in currency.

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Westside Interagency Narcotics Team, Oregon State Police, Portland Police Bureau and the Regional Organized Crime Narcotics Task Force.