DEA Seizes 700 Pounds Meth in Georgia Cartel Bust

Federal authorities in Gainesville, Georgia, seized over 700 pounds of methamphetamine, valued at more than $4 million, hidden among 30,000 pounds of cucumbers in a tractor-trailer. The bust, linked to suspected cartel activity, resulted in the arrests of Andres Jasso Jr. and Rufino Pineda-Perez, an undocumented immigrant with prior deportations and drug trafficking convictions. The DEA noted that cartels often exploit produce shipments to conceal drugs due to the difficulty of thoroughly inspecting perishable goods. The seizure followed a tip and involved multiple law enforcement agencies, preventing the drugs from reaching North Georgia and possibly the greater Atlanta area. Both suspects face federal charges carrying potential sentences of 10 years to life, with Pineda-Perez also charged for illegal reentry. Authorities are continuing to investigate, including whether the truck driver was involved.