Green Bay, Wisconsin — A 14-month investigation into a large-scale drug trafficking organization linked to Mexican drug cartels has resulted in 38 arrests across Northeast Wisconsin, according to the Brown County Sheriff’s Office.
The latest coordinated operation, carried out on Wednesday, led to 15 new arrests following the execution of 11 search warrants in Bellevue, Green Bay, Lawrence, and Neenah. Law enforcement officials described the takedown as one of the largest anti-drug operations in the region’s recent history.
15 Arrests Made in Single-Day Sweep
Authorities said Wednesday’s arrests are the result of months of collaboration between multiple law enforcement agencies. The Brown County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that charges are being referred to the Brown, Outagamie, and Winnebago County District Attorney’s Offices, and more arrests are expected in the coming days.
During the latest round of searches, investigators seized:
- 2 kilograms of cocaine
- 7 pounds of marijuana
- 21 firearms
- 2 vehicles
- $28,400 in cash
Officials say the suspects played key roles in distributing large quantities of cocaine and marijuana across Northeast Wisconsin, supplying smaller dealers in nearby towns and counties.
Earlier Arrests Uncovered More Drugs and Weapons
The Sheriff’s Office also revealed that the recent arrests are part of a much broader effort that began more than a year ago. Over the course of the 14-month investigation, 23 additional arrests were made, leading to the recovery of:
- 1.2 kilograms of cocaine
- 38 pounds of marijuana
- 6 firearms
- $18,100 in cash
Altogether, the joint investigation has taken dozens of suspects, firearms, and large drug quantities off the streets, as per the reports.
Multiple Agencies Involved in the Investigation
The Brown County Sheriff’s Office led the massive enforcement effort with crucial support from several local, state, and federal agencies, including:
- Ashwaubenon Public Safety
- Green Bay Police Department
- De Pere Police Department
- Fond du Lac County Sheriff’s Office
- Hobart-Lawrence Police Department
- Kewaunee County Sheriff’s Office
- Marinette County Sheriff’s Office
- Wisconsin State Patrol
- Wisconsin Department of Justice – Division of Criminal Investigation
Federal agencies such as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the United States Postal Inspection Service also played major roles in identifying the suspects and tracing drug movement throughout the region.
Law Enforcement: ‘This Operation Makes Wisconsin Safer’
In a news release, the Brown County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude to all assisting departments and emphasized the importance of inter-agency cooperation in dismantling organized drug trafficking networks.
“This operation demonstrates the power of collaboration,” the Sheriff’s Office said. “The drugs and weapons seized in this investigation will no longer threaten our communities. Our efforts will continue to ensure that those responsible for bringing cartel-connected drugs into Wisconsin face justice.”
Court Appearances Expected Soon
Officials confirmed that those arrested on Wednesday are expected to appear in court within the coming days. While names of the suspects have not yet been released, prosecutors are preparing multiple felony drug trafficking and weapons charges.
Authorities noted that the investigation remains active, and additional charges could be filed as evidence is processed.
A Coordinated Blow Against Cartel Influence
The takedown underscores law enforcement’s determination to combat cartel-linked drug trafficking in smaller Midwestern communities, which have increasingly become targets for distribution networks.
By dismantling the group’s operations across Brown, Outagamie, and Winnebago counties, officials say they have struck a major blow against regional narcotics trade.
Do you believe law enforcement is doing enough to keep cartel-linked drugs off Wisconsin streets? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
