Massive drug bust nets 35 arrests, millions of dollars seized

GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. - Law enforcement in Gwinnett County have arrested 10 people, seized more than 400 pounds of methamphetamine, 175 pounds of cocaine, $2 million cash, and 10 firearms in a massive drug bust.

Nicolas Fernandez-Lopez, Jose Heredia Gonzalez, Carlos Wilson Paz, Carmelo Reyes-Lozano, Cesar Leonel Perez-Flores, Raul Solorio-Campos, Rony Omar Martine-Colon, Tracy Price, Angel Santiago and Kevin Ernest Contreras have been charged with various drug trafficking and conspiracy charges. Investigators said 25 others were arrested in Coweta, Clayton, Barrow, Henry, and Fulton counties as well as North Carolina. Their names were not immediately available.

Police said the investigation into this Mexican-based drug trafficking and money laundering organization began in February, but quickly became focused on Gwinnett County. Investigators said they were able to eventually execute several search warrants and traffic stop after extensive surveillance.

Authorities said during those search warrants they found liquid meth hidden in a gas tank in one home and a shrine for La Santa Muerte, known as the “Patron Saint of Narcos.”

The DEA, Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office, Gwinnett Metro Task Force, and the Lawrenceville Police Department assisted the Gwinnett County District Attorney’s Office with the bust.

No word on a first appearance or if any of the defendants have hired a lawyer.