Three individuals who had been fugitives since December 2024 were arrested in San Juan and Carolina, Puerto Rico. They are charged with participating in drug trafficking and violent crimes linked to an organization operating from 2021 through December 2024. The individuals were charged in the case of United States v. Victor J. Pérez-Fernández, Case No. 24-453.
Gerald O. Rodríguez-Rodríguez, Ángel L. Sanjurjo, and Ramsell Maldonado-Tatis were apprehended by FBI special agents, the Puerto Rico Police Bureau, and the Carolina Municipal Police Department. They face charges of drug conspiracy, possession and distribution of multiple controlled substances, and firearms offenses related to drug trafficking. Maldonado-Tatis also faces a charge of possessing a machine gun.
“As alleged in the indictment, these individuals were engaged in violent crime and spread deadly drugs through our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Muldrow. “Today’s arrests make clear that this Office will work tirelessly to keep the law-abiding residents of Puerto Rico safe and hold accountable those who bring violence to our streets.”
Devin J. Kowalski, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s San Juan Field Office, stated, “The arrests carried out this morning reaffirm our unwavering commitment to dismantling criminal organizations. The message is clear: if you’re part of a violent criminal enterprise, the FBI will work relentlessly to find you and bring you to justice.”
According to the charging documents, the drug organization distributed heroin, fentanyl, and other drugs near public housing projects for profit. The organization, known as The Alliance, had agreements to conduct operations cooperatively, allowing for mutual protection and resources.
Assistant United States Attorneys Alberto López-Rocafort, Teresa Zapata-Valladares, Laura Díaz-González, R. Vance Eaton, and Joseph Russell are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, an initiative focused on combating illegal immigration and criminal organizations.
