The United States has charged 19 people in connection with an alleged years-long drug trafficking operation accused of distributing cocaine, crack cocaine, methamphetamine and marijuana across the Dallas area.
The U.S. Department of Justice disclosed the charges in a 24-count federal indictment announced by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas.
According to the indictment, the investigation uncovered multiple drug distribution networks, four wire targets and several drug houses operating across Dallas, with some located near schools, Boys and Girls Clubs and public parks.
US Attorney for the Northern District of Texas, Ryan Raybould, said the defendants allegedly operated one of the drug trafficking networks in Dallas.
The indictment identified Avery Wayne Davis, also known as “AD”, and Sterling Lawrence Taylor, also known as “Bo”, as alleged leaders of the organisation.
The charges include conspiracy to distribute cocaine, conspiracy to launder proceeds from drug trafficking, possession of drugs with intent to distribute, maintaining drug-involved premises, firearms offences and unlawful use of a communication facility.
Authorities said investigators seized cocaine, crack cocaine, marijuana and methamphetamine, as well as several firearms and more than $40,000 in suspected drug-related proceeds.
Additional currency and jewellery valued at more than $500,000 were also seized during the investigation, according to the Justice Department.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Dallas Police Department and other agencies under the Homeland Security Task Force.
Federal prosecutors said the case formed part of efforts to dismantle violent criminal networks operating in North Texas.
The 19 defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.