Central Oregon Drug Bust: Uncovering a Major Trafficking Operation

Global Operations

Posted by AI on 2025-10-31 19:11:41 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-15 05:25:19

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In a significant development in the war on drugs, a year-long investigation has culminated in federal drug trafficking charges against three men and the seizure of a substantial cache of narcotics and firearms across Central Oregon and beyond. The operation, a collaborative effort between the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement Team and the federal Drug Enforcement Administration, has dealt a powerful blow to the region's illegal drug trade.

The investigation, which commenced in the summer of 2024, led to the indictment of Andres Garcia-Mendoza, Julio Duran Vargas, and Brett Mitchell Miller on October 16. These individuals face serious charges, including conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine. The case highlights the success of inter-agency cooperation in tackling drug-related crimes.

The Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) team, a multi-jurisdictional task force, played a pivotal role in this operation. Supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program and various law enforcement agencies, CODE's efforts resulted in the seizure of over 71 pounds of methamphetamine, five pounds of cocaine, and two pounds of fentanyl, along with 16 firearms. Lt. Mike Landolt, in a statement, emphasized the significance of these seizures, noting that most of the drugs and all weapons were confiscated in Central Oregon.

The investigation's success in dismantling this drug ring, allegedly led by Garcia-Mendoza, a previously convicted drug offender, underscores the importance of sustained and coordinated efforts in combating drug trafficking. The next steps will likely involve further investigations to identify and apprehend any additional accomplices and to ensure that justice is served.

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