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Multistate FBI-led operation nabs alleged cocaine traffickers from Colorado

A multistate FBI-led operation into a cocaine trafficking group has nabbed 14 alleged drug traffickers, including three from the metro Denver area.

Authorities in South Dakota on Tuesday announced the results of the investigation, nicknamed “Operation Black Book,” which began in Colorado on June 16, according to a news release. Police said three people who were allegedly supplying the group with cocaine were arrested in Colorado.

The second phase of the operation took place Tuesday in South Dakota and ended with 11 people being arrested.

All 14 have been federally indicted on charges of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance; several others also face federal charges relating to financial and firearms offenses.

The arrested individuals are as follows:

  • Wuttichai Chankaeo, 32, of Commerce City
  • Joseph Valdez, 49, of Westminster
  • Amber Bravo, 42, of Westminster
  • Zeno Rendon, 31, of Box Elder, South Dakota
  • Deja Guthmiller, 23, of Rapid City, South Dakota
  • Mason Martin, 23, of Rapid City, South Dakota
  • Dylan Sanchez, 34, of Rapid City, South Dakota
  • Jarrian Ribitsch, 31, of Pine Ridge, South Dakota
  • Laci Ribitsch, 32, of Pine Ridge, South Dakota
  • Sara Clifford, 33, of Rapid City, South Dakota
  • Ryan Jones, 38, of Rapid City, South Dakota
  • Caleb Allard, 35, of Rapid City, South Dakota
  • Savannah Backward, 31, of Pine Ridge, South Dakota
  • Evan Sanchez, 33, of Rapid City, South Dakota

The case was investigated by the FBI, DEA, IRS-Criminal Division, South Dakota Highway Patrol, South Dakota National Guard Counter Drug Unit, and Rapid City police. Tribal police, including investigators from the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, also assisted with the investigation.


Matt Kyle

Reporter


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