GEORGIA — Authorities in Richmond County say a drug trafficking investigation uncovered 185 pounds of marijuana being transported across multiple states using commercial airline flights.
According to the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, the investigation was carried out May 12 by the agency’s Narcotics Division in coordination with the Crime Suppression Team and the Richmond County Marshal’s Office.
Investigators said the operation targeted a drug trafficking organization believed to be responsible for moving large quantities of marijuana throughout the Central Savannah River Area.
During the investigation, deputies arrested Julian Gutierrez and Rigoberto Santacruz at Augusta Regional Airport after authorities allegedly discovered approximately 120 pounds of marijuana concealed inside multiple suitcases.
Authorities later executed a narcotics search warrant at 204 Washington Road, where investigators arrested Agustin Castaneda. Officials said Castaneda was found in possession of an additional 65 pounds of marijuana, also hidden inside suitcases.
All three suspects were charged with trafficking in marijuana.
