Five individuals from the Seattle area have been indicted by a grand jury for their involvement in drug trafficking activities within Seattle's homeless encampments and International District. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman, who stated that the men are facing federal charges and have already appeared in court.

U.S. Attorney Gorman emphasized the focus on community safety, particularly in Seattle’s International District. She acknowledged the efforts of various law enforcement agencies, including the Seattle Police Department, FBI, and DEA, in identifying members of this drug ring. "They prey on the most vulnerable and with guns and threats increase the danger on our streets," she said.

Special Agent W. Mike Herrington of the FBI Seattle field office commented on how the organization exploited vulnerabilities such as addiction and homelessness, often resorting to violence or threats. He assured continued efforts to dismantle such organizations to ensure safety in Seattle and Washington state.

The indictment names Tommy Pham, 37; Donfeuy Saephan, 54; Khampheth Keodara, 42; Sang Tran, 54; and Theodore Nation, 35. The investigation began in November 2023 and involved several law enforcement agencies targeting a drug trafficking network dealing fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin at locations like 12th and Jackson.

During recent operations, authorities seized 17 firearms and approximately 23 kilos of suspected fentanyl powder. Charges against these individuals include conspiracy to distribute controlled substances with mandatory minimum sentences ranging from five to ten years for certain offenses.

Seattle Police Chief Sue Rahr expressed pride in collaborating with federal partners to enhance city safety. DEA Special Agent David F. Reames highlighted the potential threat posed by this group due to their possession of fentanyl powder capable of producing millions of deadly doses.

Adam Jobes from IRS Criminal Investigation reiterated commitment towards exposing profits derived from drug trafficking as part of broader law enforcement efforts against organized crime networks.

This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation aimed at dismantling high-level criminal networks through a coordinated multi-agency approach involving federal, state, and local entities.

The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Casey Conzatti and Brian Wynne.