Joint Operation Targets Las Cruces Based Drug Trafficking Organization

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Today, Alexander M.M. Uballez, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico, Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, and Chief Jeremy Story, Las Cruces Police Department, announced the results of a coordinated enforcement operation in Las Cruces.

According to the search warrant affidavit, the FBI and the Las Cruces/Dona Ana County Metro Narcotics Agency were investigating the distribution of methamphetamine out of the Desert Lodge Motel on West Picacho Avenue in Las Cruces. In February and March of 2024, agents orchestrated controlled buys at the motel.

On March 12th, agents executed the search warrant and seized fentanyl, methamphetamine and a firearm from the motel.

The federal search was conducted in conjunction with five other New Mexico state search warrants executed by the Las Cruces Police Department. As a result of the operation, six individuals were arrested on state charges.

 “We stand with our local partners to confront drug trafficking at every level,” said U.S. Attorney Uballez. “Through strong partnerships and close collaboration, we will bring justice and peace to our streets.”

"Collaborative law enforcement efforts will continue to identify and disrupt drug trafficking organizations bringing violence to our streets," said FBI Special Agent in Charge Raul Bujanda. “Investigations like this prove the essential value of strong law enforcement partnerships and working together to meet a common goal.”

“This operation is a visible reminder of the amazing work that is being done between local, state, and federal agencies every day to address the violence and crime in our communities,” said LCPD Chief Jeremy Story. “These efforts make a difference in our city, and we will continue to work together to make Las Cruces and New Mexico safer.”

The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case in collaboration with the Las Cruces Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Armijo is assisting with the investigation.

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