Large-scale investigation on drug, gun trafficking organization includes Grays Harbor

The Joint Narcotics Enforcement Team (JNET) was one of a number of area and federal agencies that have, since late 2016, spearheaded investigation into a drug and firearm distribution organization resulting in the seizure of 23 kilograms of meth, over $300,000 in cash and property and 115 firearms.

Eleven individuals have been charged in the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Washington, and five more have cases yet to be adjudicated.

According to a press release from the Centralia Police Department, JNET, the Drug Enforcement Administration and Tacoma Resident Office initiated an investigation into a criminal organization responsible for trafficking crystal meth, heroin and guns throughout southwest Washington.

The criminal network was built on associations from prison, during inmates’ sentences in Washington.

“These associations manifested into a broad network of members fluent in various criminal activities, to include the trafficking of large quantities of methamphetamine, heroin and stolen and/or illicit firearms,” reads the press release.

Investigators have written and executed 20 search warrants spanning Lewis, Pierce, Thurston and Grays Harbor counties, leading to the arrest and charging of 17 people. Others have been charged in Lewis and Thurston counties’ district courts, according to the press release.

The following people have been charged in Washington’s Western District: Aaron Barge, Dawn Cooper, Torina Lorenzano, Terry Munsell, John McNeal, Martha McNeal, Heath Morris, Stephen Conophy, Brandon Seward, Kathy Pedigo and Brian Colson.

Most recently, the investigation yielded additional arrests and the seizure of large quantities of meth and 85 firearms. The press release doesn’t go into further detail on these most recent investigations.

“This investigation is ongoing at this time and there will be no further information released until its conclusion,” reads the press release.

— The Chronicle