BREAKING NEWS: Rodolfo Aviles-Reyes, a 38-year-old drug trafficker from Mexico, has pleaded guilty to serious federal charges, including drug trafficking and money laundering, in the Eastern District of Louisiana. The plea was entered on November 19, 2023, revealing a disturbing network distributing large quantities of narcotics such as cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl.
This urgent update comes from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, which confirms that Aviles-Reyes was part of a criminal organization responsible for distributing multi-kilogram amounts of drugs across Louisiana. His operations involved transporting narcotics and U.S. currency between New Orleans and other states, supporting a Drug Trafficking Organization based in Mexico.
Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson emphasized the grave implications of these crimes, particularly the impact of substances like heroin and fentanyl on communities struggling with addiction. “These drugs are not just numbers; they destroy lives,” he stated.
Aviles-Reyes faces severe consequences, with the potential for a prison sentence ranging from a minimum of 10 years to life imprisonment for drug conspiracy charges. Additionally, he could incur fines up to $10 million. The money laundering charges could add 20 years and a fine of $500,000. For interstate travel in aid of racketeering, he may face another 5 years and a fine of $250,000. Each count also carries mandatory assessments and post-imprisonment supervision.
This case is part of a larger initiative under the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF), aimed at combating transnational criminal organizations. This multi-agency effort includes the Department of Homeland Security, DEA, FBI, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, all collaborating to dismantle the networks that contribute to widespread substance abuse and violent crime.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman is leading the prosecution, with robust support from various law enforcement agencies, including the DEA’s New Orleans Field Division and local police departments. The HSTF’s comprehensive strategy targets not only drug trafficking but also heinous crimes such as child trafficking.
As this case unfolds, communities are urged to stay vigilant and informed about the ongoing battle against drug-related crime. Authorities will continue to monitor the situation closely, with more updates expected as the sentencing date approaches.
Stay tuned for further developments on this critical issue affecting our communities.
