A major law enforcement operation has resulted in the arrest of 29 individuals for alleged money laundering and drug trafficking violations, as announced by acting U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery. The operation spanned multiple states, including Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, North Carolina, and Texas.

The arrests in Houston have led to initial court appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Peter Bray. Four indictments returned by Houston grand juries in late 2024 accuse the defendants of participating in a multi-national trade-based money laundering network linked to criminal organizations such as the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The network allegedly laundered illicit funds through transactions involving cellular phones.

Among those charged is Francisco Jaramillo-Valdovinos, also known as Chico Jaramillo, purportedly a high-ranking CJNG commander. He remains at large with an outstanding warrant for his arrest. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) encourages anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact them at 713-693-3000.

The arrests follow a 21-month investigation named Operation Noch by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). During this period, authorities reportedly seized significant quantities of drugs and millions in drug proceeds.

Authorities confiscated 85 kilograms of methamphetamine, 10 kilograms of cocaine, 17 firearms, $481,000 from a bank account, and approximately $566,000 in cash during the arrests.

If convicted on drug trafficking charges, many face life sentences and substantial fines. Those charged with money laundering could face up to 20 years in federal prison.

The investigation was conducted by the DEA and IRS Criminal Investigation alongside local police departments and the U.S. Marshals Service. OCDETF aims to dismantle top-tier criminal organizations threatening national security through coordinated efforts.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie Bauman, Sherin Daniel, and Leo J. Leo III are leading the prosecution.

It is important to note that an indictment is merely an accusation; all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.