DOWNEY, CA – In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, three individuals have been charged in connection with a major fentanyl operation in Downey, California, authorities announced Tuesday. The seized drugs, with a street value estimated at $55 million, highlight the ongoing battle against the opioid crisis plaguing the region.
Downey Police Chief Scott Loughner, alongside Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman and California Attorney General Rob Bonta, shared details of the arrests during a press conference. Chief Loughner emphasized the devastating impact of fentanyl on local families, recalling the painful duty of informing parents about the overdose deaths of their children.
On January 22, law enforcement officials seized over 50 pounds of fentanyl in Downey, believed to be linked to the suspects, who reportedly have connections to a Mexican cartel. Officials stated that the confiscated fentanyl could have been converted into 14 million deadly doses.
The operation was described as the largest bust to date by the authorities involved, with the potential to save countless lives. “This is our biggest bust yet,” Chief Loughner stated, highlighting the magnitude of the operation. The California Department of Justice’s fentanyl enforcement team, in collaboration with Downey police, was instrumental in the investigation.
The breakthrough came following a traffic stop for tinted windows, which led to the arrest of 43-year-old Priscilla Gómez of Torrance. Investigators found drugs in her possession, which subsequently led them to an apartment where further operations were uncovered. The apartment reportedly contained elements linked to a cartel.
Gómez’s brother, 47-year-old Gustavo Gomez of Huntington Park, and 38-year-old Carlos Mariscal are also facing felony drug charges. If convicted, they could face sentences ranging from 24 to 48 years in prison. The arrests are hailed as a significant step in preventing the distribution of a lethal substance capable of claiming numerous lives.
Attorney General Rob Bonta praised the diligent work of the Downey Police Department, noting the potential lives saved by this operation. “There was enough fentanyl in this one seizure alone to kill every resident in L.A. County,” he remarked.
Priscilla Gómez remains in federal custody, while Gustavo Gomez and Mariscal have pleaded not guilty. They are scheduled to appear in court again soon, as the legal process continues against them.