Western District of Washington | In a rapid investigation, HSI, DEA and local partners seized more than 16 kilograms of fentanyl powder and 60,000 fentanyl pills

Seattle – A fast-moving investigation led to the seizure of a large quantity of fentanyl and four federal arrests, announced U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. The investigation began at the end of March when undercover agents arranged the first drug deals. The case culminated in arrests and seizures on May 9, 2024. The four defendants appeared today in U.S. District Court in Seattle.

“This rapid work by federal and local law enforcement will save lives as 16 kilograms of fentanyl powder and tens of thousands of pills have been taken off the streets,” said U.S. Attorney Gorman. “With two fatal fentanyl overdoses occurring per day in King County alone, we are focused on getting as much fentanyl off the streets and out of circulation as possible.”

“Fentanyl dealers threaten the lives of our community for profit, and this amount of fentanyl represents over 1.6 million potentially lethal doses,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Seattle Field Division. “The Drug Enforcement Administration and our partners are working tirelessly to stop those who would bring this tragedy to our communities, and this case is another example of the power of teamwork that keeps us all safer.”

According to the criminal complaint, undercover agents from Homeland Security Investigations posed as wealthy drug customers. They struck a deal to purchase several kilos of fentanyl powder and pills. Elvin Irias-Escoto, 22, of Honduras, who lived in Renton, agreed to deliver the drugs. DEA Tacoma agents monitored Irias-Escoto and his co-conspirators as they packed boxes, a backpack and a cooler into a car at an apartment complex in Renton. The four conspirators drove to the Bellingham area where they organized drug sales for a shopping center parking lot. The defendants showed law enforcement two boxes containing 15 packages containing just over 15 kilograms of fentanyl powder.

Ultimately, all four men were arrested. In addition to Irias-Escoto, the following three defendants are charged in the case:

Selvin Ponce-Maradiaga, 26, of Honduras, lives in Renton, WA

Sammy Maradiaga-Escoto, 20, of Honduras, lives in Federal Way, WA

Hector Rosales-Martinez, 24, of Honduras, Washington, address unknown

In addition to the fentanyl powder, law enforcement seized a firearm that was located in the car. When officers searched the Renton apartment, an additional 60,000 fentanyl pills, another kilogram of fentanyl powder and several boxes of ammunition were seized.

“Today’s successful operation, which resulted in four arrests and the seizure of a significant amount of fentanyl, underscores the importance of collaboration between HSI and our law enforcement partners,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Hammer, who oversees HSI operations in the Pacific Northwest. “This joint investigation is an example of the commitment and coordination needed to combat the scourge of illegal drugs in our communities. We remain committed to working together to dismantle criminal networks and protect the safety and well-being of our citizens.”

“I cannot emphasize enough the seriousness of this fentanyl seizure and the critical role of our collaborative partnerships,” said Tobin Meyer, commander of the Skagit County Interlocal Drug Enforcement Unit (SCIDEU). “This operation demonstrates the effectiveness of pooling resources and expertise across agencies. “By working together, we are sending a clear message to drug traffickers: We will relentlessly pursue you, disrupt your operations and protect our communities from the devastating effects of illegal substances.”

The allegations contained in the criminal complaint are merely allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

This case was the result of coordinated work between HSI, DEA, FBI, Skagit County Interlocal Drug Enforcement Unit, Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, Customs and Border Protection Office of Field Operations, Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations and the US Border Patrol.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Yunah Chung and Jehiel Baer.