ALABAMA — An illegal hunting complaint in Limestone County has led to the arrest of two individuals on drug trafficking and firearms charges following a months-long investigation.
Authorities said the investigation began in December after receiving a report of illegal hunting on private property in the Tanner community. During surveillance, investigators observed several individuals in tree stands who fled the area while armed with firearms.
Agents later determined the individuals were in the United States illegally and were in possession of illegal firearms and controlled substances.
Gerson Rivera, of Honduras, and Oralia Luna, of Mexico, were arrested Thursday, February 26. They are charged with drug trafficking, possession of a firearm by an illegal alien, hunting without permission, and hunting without a non-resident license. Both are also being held for Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Based on evidence gathered during the investigation, authorities executed a search warrant at a residence in the 18000 block of Nuclear Plant Road. The operation involved the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team and Criminal Investigations Division, Alabama Conservation Officers, and ICE agents.
During the search, four additional individuals were taken into custody. Investigators said they recovered approximately 17 pounds of marijuana, three firearms, and illegally harvested game.
The investigation remains ongoing.
