Maricopa to Phoenix drug ring dismantled

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The alleged leader of a drug smuggling organization accused of moving thousands of pounds of marijuana between Maricopa and the Phoenix metropolitan area was arrested today following a major multi-agency enforcement operation led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office.

Jose Sarinana-Placencia, 28, and five members of his organization are facing state and federal drug smuggling and weapons charges. The arrests were made after teams of law enforcement officials executed seven search warrants early this morning at locations in Chandler, Mesa and Maricopa. In addition to the arrests officials seized ten weapons, including a Mac-10 pistol, and two ballistic vests.

Sarinana’s smuggling organization is believed to have moved multiple tons of marijuana every month. HSI and PCSO opened an investigation into the organization in February. Before today’s operation, the investigation had led to the seizure of approximately 3,000 pounds of marijuana, more than $300,000, nearly three pounds of cocaine and 22 weapons.

“From every indication, this organization has been a major player in moving narcotics smuggled in from Mexico to the Phoenix area,” said Matt Allen, special agent in charge of ICE HSI in Phoenix.

“By teaming up with PCSO on this complex investigation, we have been able to expose this network and shut it down.”