California Man Charged With Possessing With Intent To Distribute 27 Kilograms Of Methamphetamine

NEWARK, N.J. – A South Gate, California, man appeared in federal court today to face a drug distribution charge after he was arrested and found with 27 kilograms of methamphetamine hidden in a tractor trailer he was driving, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced.

Tomas Lopez Beltran, 45, is charged by complaint with one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Joseph A. Dickson in Newark federal court and was detained. He was arrested Oct. 28, 2016 by agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

According to the complaint:

On Oct. 28, 2016, law enforcement performed a traffic stop of a tractor trailer in Woodbridge, New Jersey. The tractor trailer was driven by Beltran. During a lawful search, law enforcement recovered approximately 27 kilograms of methamphetamine from a concealed compartment inside the cab of the trailer. 

The possession with intent to distribute charge carries a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum potential penalty of life in prison and a $10 million fine.

U.S. Attorney Fishman credited special agents of the DEA, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Carl J. Kotowski in Newark, with the investigation leading to the charges.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen D. Stringer and Mary Toscano, Chief of the General Crimes Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Newark.

Defense counsel: David Holman Esq., Assistant Federal Public Defender, Newar