United States Attorney Joe Kelly announced today that eight individuals were arrested on July 19, 2019 as a result of a year-long investigation involving several law enforcement agencies from the Omaha metropolitan area. Four other individuals were previously arrested for their role in this investigation prior to this organized sweep. This investigation is intended to address the burgeoning violent crime occurring in Southeast Omaha.
This Mexican drug trafficking organization’s activities were based out of the El Catrin Restaurant and Bar in South Omaha, 6500 Railroad Avenue, which served as a distribution point of narcotics for more than a decade.
This was part of the Safe Streets Task Force investigation and involved the following agencies: FBI, Omaha Police Department, Nebraska State Patrol, IRS, Bellevue Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff's Office, La Vista Police Department, Council Bluffs Police Department, Papillion Police Department, Nebraska Army National Guard - Counter Drug, USAO - District of Nebraska, DHS - Enforcement Removal Officers.
“There is a lot of work behind the scenes to help reduce crime and criminal enterprises in every major city. I appreciate the hard work by OPD and our partners towards making our city safe,” said OPD Chief Todd Schmaderer.
In addition to the aforementioned arrests, the investigation has resulted in the seizure of three weapons, $55,000 in cash, approximately six kilograms of cocaine, six pounds of methamphetamine, four vehicles, and certain real estate, which is subject to forfeiture. This is an ongoing investigation and more information will be made available at a later date.
“This operation demonstrates how a team of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, working closely with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, can make a big impact in the communities we serve and protect. Dozens of law enforcement professionals from multiple agencies worked together to take these individuals off the streets,” said Acting FBI Special Agent in Charge John Barrios. “The FBI and our partners will continue to go after drug-traffickers and others who try to harm our communities, regardless of how long it takes.”