Local, state and federal officials said all defendants face at least 10 years to life in prison if convicted. A chemist from a Mexican drug cartel was invoked, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Law enforcement is seeking the following two fugitives: Joshua Leach and Brandi Loy both age 34.
EARLIER REPORT
A major methamphetamine and opioid distribution conspiracy has been uncovered, and seven defendants will be prosecuted, according to local, state and federal investigators who will hold a news conference later today in Dayton’s Federal Building.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and Drug Enforcement Agency along with the Middletown and Monroe police departments, the Warren County Sheriff’s Office and the Ohio State Highway Patrol will brief media on the charges, defendants and court proceedings during an afternoon news conference.
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Speakers are expected to include U.S. Attorney Benjamin C. Glassman and DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Mauricio Jimenez.
A superseding indictment was unsealed that names seven defendants – three of whom a judge said are at-large – for a conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine, more than 400 grams of fentanyl and more than 100 grams of heroin.
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Those indicted and in custody are Salvador Ramirez, aka “Listo,” Tamara McQueen, Jesus Roberto Diaz-Magana and Jesus “Jesse” Garcia. U.S. District Court Judge Walter Rice said those at-large are Joshua Leach, Brandi Loy and Takeea Trammel.
The six-count indictment states that the criminal activity happened before or from January to June 2018. Forfeitures listed in the case include more than $130,000 in cash and a Bersa 9mm pistol.
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Ramirez, whose mug shot was not immediately available, was arraigned Tuesday morning. He pleaded not guilty. McQueen’s arraignment was delayed because her attorney said she didn’t receive a copy of the superseding indictment.
Rice said Diaz-Magana and Garcia previously were arraigned by a magistrate judge. Rice said the others would be arraigned upon their capture and incarceration.
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