The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office announced the seizure of hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine and multiple illegal firearms from a Mexico-based drug trafficking organization following a two-month investigation.
Authorities said the organization relied on Sergio Sanchez of Moreno Valley to operate a safehouse, transport drugs from the Southwest border, and facilitate distribution in Southern California, including Ventura County.
Sanchez, working with co-conspirators—including Ventura County residents—was arrested on Dec. 17 in the 11900 block of Indian Street in Moreno Valley, where he allegedly stored, packaged, and delivered bulk shipments of methamphetamine.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office reported that detectives recovered approximately 350 pounds of methamphetamine, five rifles, two handguns, ammunition, U.S. currency, and additional evidence supporting drug sales. While the VCSO reported five rifles and two handguns, images supplied by the agency appear to show four rifles and three handguns.
Sanchez faces charges including:
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Possession of a controlled substance for sale
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Possession of a controlled substance with a loaded firearm
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Possession of an assault weapon
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Carrying a concealed weapon
He also faces enhancements for the weight of the drugs and special allegations for possession of drugs while armed.
The VCSO said Sanchez was released while charges are pending, and it is unclear if he has been taken back into custody, as he did not appear in jail records.
“This case is a great example of the impact that local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies can have when they work together to dismantle transnational criminal organizations,” said Assistant Sheriff Victor Fazio.