Heroin Bust in East Valley

[APSN556]

:: From DPS Public Information Officer::

- For Immediate Release -
Friday, March 6, 2009

Arizona Department of Public Safety Northern Narcotics Task Force Arrest Seven Suspects seize thousands in Cash in a major Heroin Drug Ring
Investigation started in Northern Arizona and reached into the east valley

On Feb. 25-27, the Arizona Department of Public Safety Northern Narcotics/Major Crimes Apprehension Team in Show Low concluded a seven month investigation that included Mesa, Chandler and Gilbert. A significant heroin drug ring, stemming from Chandler, was dismantled after the service of three search warrants. Seven people were arrested and approximately $14,000 and 392 grams of heroin were seized. Cooperation was given by Chandler Police Narcotics Unit and the DPS Northern Narcotics Task Force.

Arrested: Fernando Martinez, 24, Chandler
Mercedes Martinez, 59, Chandler
Angie Saauedra, 50, Chandler
Jose Ozuna, 57, Mesa
Frances Ozuna, 59, Mesa
Salvador Esquer, 28, Gilbert
Joseph Berumen, 49, Mesa

Charges Include: Possession of Narcotic Drug for Sale, Possession of Narcotic Drug, Misconduct with Weapons-Prohibited Possessor, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

*Suspect photos available through MCSO*

“This Heroin Ring was based in the east valley and was busy transporting its illegal product to the Show Low area of northeastern Arizona. These arrests made by DPS Officers with the help of the Chandler Police Narcotics Unit effectively dismantled this operation therefore making communities in the valley and in northern Arizona safer,” said Roger Vanderpool director of the Arizona Department of Public Safety.