SAN JOSE, Calif. — The Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office announced a major breakthrough in the fight against drug trafficking after seizing 500 pounds of methamphetamine during a search warrant operation in San Jose on Sept. 26.
The bust, which officials described as one of the largest in Northern California in recent years, was tied to an ongoing investigation into a drug trafficking organization operating in Sonoma County. Sheriff’s K9 “Duke” played a crucial role, leading detectives to the massive stash.
Chase and Barricade Situation
While executing the warrant at a home on the 3000 block of Seven Trees Boulevard, detectives attempted to stop a vehicle linked to the case. The driver initially complied but then led officers on a car chase that ended in a crash at a nearby intersection.
According to officials, the driver fled on foot and barricaded himself inside a residence unrelated to him. San Jose police established containment and secured a warrant, but despite an extensive search, the driver was not located.
Additional Seizures and Arrests
Alongside the methamphetamine, investigators also seized a loaded handgun and approximately $4,000 in cash.
Two suspects — 40-year-old Jose Ortiz-Rivera and 47-year-old Adela Lamas-Quintero — were arrested in connection with the bust. Both are being held at the Sonoma County Jail on $500,000 bail each.
The pair face multiple charges, including:
- Possession of drugs with intent to distribute
- Transportation of a controlled substance
- Possession of narcotics while armed with a loaded gun
- Illegal gun possession
- Offenses related to counterfeit identification documents and conspiracy
Officials React
“This significant seizure, believed to be one of the largest in Northern California in recent years, has undoubtedly made a substantial impact on the safety of our community,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement.
The investigation remains ongoing as reported.
