LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Three men accused in a fentanyl trafficking operation made their first appearances in federal court in Las Vegas.
Prosecutors said the case is part of a Homeland Security task force crackdown on transnational drug networks moving fentanyl into U.S. communities.
Federal officials said the organization allegedly operated from at least 2024 through early August of this year, moving fentanyl, drug money and guns.
Charges filed
The defendants — Adrian Ortiz Moreno, also known as “El Apache,” Martin Castro Jr. and Juan Martinez Ramirez — face charges including conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, possession with intent to distribute, and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
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Four other people are also charged in the same indictment.
If convicted, some of the charges carry a maximum penalty of life in prison.
Trial date set
A jury trial is currently set for Oct. 19 before U.S. District Judge Cristina Silva.
Federal authorities stressed that the charges are only allegations and that all seven defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
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