BREAKING: A significant drug trafficking operation has been dismantled, with five individuals arrested in a major bust that involved the shipment of 22 tons of cocaine and over $100 million in cash between Los Angeles and New York City. The U.S. Department of Justice announced these developments today, shedding light on an extensive cross-country drug network.
The alleged ringleaders, David Rodriguez, 45, from Dumont, New Jersey, and Raymond O’Connell, 39, from Manhattan, have been in custody since 2024. They are accused of orchestrating the purchase and transportation of bulk quantities of cocaine, which was reportedly stored in a front business masquerading as a jewelry store in downtown Los Angeles.
The drugs were shipped in locked plastic cases disguised as high-value freight, using specialized shipping companies that handle jewelry, precious metals, and fine art. Once the cocaine reached New York’s Diamond District, Rodriguez and O’Connell allegedly distributed it to co-conspirators on the East Coast, while funneling the cash back to L.A. for laundering.
Authorities report that over 800 parcels containing cocaine were sent from L.A. to New York, valued at an astounding $315 million. Additionally, more than 500 parcels were shipped back to L.A., worth an estimated $105 million. Law enforcement has seized over $2.8 million in cash drug proceeds, as well as more than 725 kilograms (nearly 1,600 pounds) of cocaine, high-end vehicles, and jewelry purchased with drug profits.
In an earlier development, Ronnell Sweat, 47, a resident of New York City, pleaded guilty to federal firearm charges in 2024 and is currently serving a 15-year sentence. The recent arrests also include:
– Jamel Donald Levy, 52, from Brooklyn
– Bruce Adams, 50, from the Bronx
– Cindy Rachel Imbert, 33, from Englewood, New Jersey
– Nohely Jimenez, 30, from downtown L.A.
– Lorna “Cookie” Martinez, 42, from downtown L.A.
These defendants made initial court appearances today in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, while the Los Angeles defendants are expected to appear in federal court tomorrow.
Rodriguez and O’Connell face serious charges, including engaging in a continuing criminal enterprise and conspiracy to distribute cocaine. If convicted, they could face mandatory life sentences, as the cocaine distribution charges carry a minimum of 10 years and a maximum of life imprisonment. The money laundering charges could also result in up to 20 years in federal prison.
Investigators are still seeking two other suspects connected to this case: Daniel “Nice” Vega, 52, and Gregory “G” Antonio Benitez, 40, both residents of New York City.
As this story develops, authorities continue to urge the public to remain vigilant against drug trafficking and related crimes. This case highlights a well-organized network operating at a significant scale, emphasizing the ongoing battle against the narcotics trade in the United States.
Stay tuned for updates as this investigation unfolds.