Adan Macedo-Rios, a 52-year-old Mexican national unlawfully residing in the United States, has been convicted of several charges including drug trafficking, money laundering, robbery, and unlawful possession of firearms. The case was presented by U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg.
"Macedo-Rios, an illegal alien, distributed large amounts of dangerous drugs and laundered his ill-gotten gains through the purchase of a Georgia horse ranch," said Hertzberg. "Through our combined efforts, we foiled the robbery plan and dismantled the drug trafficking and money laundering organization that Macedo-Rios supplied."
Jae W. Chung from the DEA Atlanta Division emphasized their commitment to combating such criminal activities: "This investigation demonstrates DEA’s commitment to destroying these drug trafficking and money laundering organizations."
FBI Special Agent Paul Brown stated: "For all the innocent residents who are trying to raise families in safe communities, the FBI wants you to know that we are here for you through arrests like this."
Steven N. Schrank from Homeland Security Investigations remarked on Macedo-Rios's conviction as a testament to law enforcement's dedication: “Thanks to the hard work of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners.”
Macedo-Rios was involved in supplying at least 123 kilograms of cocaine across multiple states and had planned a robbery against a rival supplier storing 65 kilograms of cocaine. His arrest at his Loganville ranch led to discovering firearms he was prohibited from possessing due to his status.
Macedo-Rios appeared before Judge J.P. Boulee on May 28th and pleaded guilty to multiple charges including conspiracy related to drug distribution and robbery.
He faces significant penalties including a minimum sentence of 10 years up to life for drug trafficking convictions among other potential sentences for his crimes.
Sentencing is set for August 26th before Judge Boulee.
The case involved collaboration between several agencies including DEA, FBI, ATF, Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from local law enforcement bodies.
Assistant United States Attorneys John T. DeGenova and Rebeca M. Ojeda are prosecuting under Operation Take Back America initiative aimed at tackling organized crime syndicates within the U.S., specifically focusing on major traffickers in Atlanta through its Strike Force Initiative.
Further inquiries can be directed towards U.S Attorney’s Public Affairs Office via email or phone as provided in their contact details online.
