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A joint operation carried out by the FBI, US Marshals, and New Mexico State Police has led to the takedown of a significant drug trafficking network linked to a New Mexico prison.
What’s the deal: Authorities targeted 13 locations across New Mexico linked to a drug trafficking network connected to the Cibola County Correctional Center, focusing on smuggling contraband into the prison. Federal agents conducted searches at various residences in Albuquerque, Los Lunas, Gallup, Seboyeta, Crownpoint, and Grants, all suspected of housing evidence of drug trafficking and weapons possession. During these raids, authorities seized 15 firearms, ammunition, fentanyl, methamphetamine, suboxone strips, and over $6,000 in cash.
How was the contraband brought in: According to police, drugs and contraband were smuggled into the prison through a variety of covert methods, including involving correctional staff or other employees who brought drugs directly into the facility. Another method, known as “throw overs,” involved accomplices on the outside throwing packages of drugs and other illicit items over the prison fence, where inmates would then retrieve them. Additionally, drugs were smuggled inside individuals’ bodies, hidden in concealed areas, and introduced as inmates entered or re-entered the facility.
The network also exploited the legal mail system, with drugs cleverly concealed within packages that appeared to be legitimate legal documents, allowing contraband to bypass typical inspection protocols.
Officials from agencies react: Philip Russell, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Division said, “This week’s operation demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to continue to dismantle criminal enterprises operating in New Mexico. The FBI, along with our federal, state, local and tribal partners are determined to bring drug traffickers to justice for crimes committed and damage done to our communities.”
David Barnett, a US Marshal for the District of New Mexico, said, “The US Marshals Service is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for prisoners that are under our care. The execution of this joint operation is a testament to the unwavering dedication by our Federal, State, and Local partners to combat crime and improve the lives of our New Mexico communities.”
