Antonio Cruz, a 36-year-old Mexican national, was arrested on July 8 in Phoenix, Arizona. He faces charges of Distribution of a Controlled Substance after allegedly selling over 1,000 grams of methamphetamine to an undercover agent.
The criminal complaint states that Cruz met with an undercover Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) agent and another individual in April at a business parking lot in Phoenix. During this meeting, Cruz reportedly provided the agent with approximately three pounds of pure methamphetamine for $2,700.
A records check revealed that Cruz is a previously convicted felon and is illegally present in the United States.
This arrest is part of Operation Take Back America. This nationwide initiative aims to combat illegal immigration and eliminate cartels and transnational criminal organizations. The operation utilizes resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The ATF is leading the investigation into this case. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Usry from the District of Arizona in Phoenix is handling the prosecution.
It should be noted that a criminal complaint is merely an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona, visit their website.
