Andres Jasso, Jr. and Rufino Pineda-Perez appeared in federal court following their arrest for allegedly trafficking over 700 pounds of methamphetamine concealed within a shipment of cucumbers. The arrests occurred outside a Gainesville warehouse after DEA agents identified the tractor-trailer as potentially carrying a large drug load.
U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg stated, "Thanks to the diligent work of our federal and state law enforcement partners, a tremendous amount of meticulously concealed methamphetamine was located, was seized, and will never hit the street." He emphasized that his office is committed to prosecuting those who attempt to use North Georgia as a hub for drug distribution.
Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division, commented on the agency's dedication to holding drug distributors accountable: “This case represents the continued commitment of the DEA to identify and hold accountable those who engage in the distribution of dangerous drugs.”
Court documents reveal that on June 30, 2025, DEA agents observed Jasso and Pineda-Perez near the suspect vehicle at a Gainesville warehouse. A search revealed thousands of packages containing methamphetamine hidden among cucumber boxes. Both men were reportedly tasked with unloading and separating drugs from produce.
Pineda-Perez has previously been deported twice following felony convictions related to drug trafficking offenses. He faces additional charges for illegal reentry into the United States after removal.
Jasso and Pineda-Perez have been charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine; Pineda-Perez also faces charges related to illegal reentry by a removed alien. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt at trial.
The investigation involved collaboration between several agencies including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Georgia State Patrol, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and Department of Homeland Security's Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Johnny Baer is leading prosecution efforts as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) initiative aimed at dismantling significant drug trafficking networks in Atlanta and Northern Georgia regions.
The case falls under Operation Take Back America which seeks to combat illegal immigration while targeting cartels and transnational criminal organizations through coordinated DOJ resources from OCDETFs and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
Parents are encouraged by the U.S Attorney’s Office in Atlanta to educate themselves about drug dangers via www.justthinktwice.gov for further information regarding these initiatives or contact details provided through official channels online or by phone.
