A federal grand jury has indicted five members of a Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO) linked to the Sureños in Minnesota. Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick announced that the defendants are accused of being involved in a scheme to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl. The group, led by Erick Emilio Diaz-Aguilar, known as the “Diaz-Aguilar DTO,” has allegedly been operating in Minnesota since at least 2024.
Through a detailed investigation over several months, law enforcement seized significant quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl from individuals connected to the organization. The investigation indicated associations between the Diaz-Aguilar DTO and transnational criminal organizations smuggling narcotics from Mexico.
Erick Emilio Diaz-Aguilar, a 32-year-old Mexican national residing in New Prague, Minnesota, faces charges including conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, distribution of methamphetamine, and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Juan Martin Elvira, Jr., from Rochester, Minnesota, is charged with conspiracy and possession related to methamphetamine and fentanyl. Edward Gonzalez from Hastings, Minnesota, faces charges involving conspiracy, distribution, and possession of methamphetamine. Eric Anthony Rodriguez from St. Paul, Minnesota, is charged with similar offenses related to methamphetamine distribution and conspiracy.
Another suspect involved in the alleged scheme remains at large, with officials attempting to arrest them.
Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick commented, “The Sureños and other drug cartels are dangerous criminal organizations that are fueling the drug crisis in America. Cartel-backed drug dealers are on notice. Do not bring your poison to Minnesota. If you do, you will see federal charges and federal prison time.”
The investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration and is part of Operation Take Back America. This nationwide initiative aims to address illegal immigration and dismantle cartels and transnational criminal organizations.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Raphael B. Coburn is handling the prosecution. The indictment serves as an allegation, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
