Andres Jasso, Jr. and Rufino Pineda-Perez appeared in federal court on charges related to the trafficking of over 700 pounds of methamphetamine. The drugs were concealed within a tractor-trailer load of cucumbers at a Gainesville warehouse.
U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg stated, “Thanks to the diligent work of our federal and state law enforcement partners, a tremendous amount of meticulously concealed methamphetamine was located, was seized, and will never hit the street.” He emphasized that their office would aggressively prosecute those attempting to use North Georgia as a distribution hub for drugs.
Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division, commented on the case: “This case represents the continued commitment of the DEA to identify and hold accountable those who engage in the distribution of dangerous drugs.”
The incident unfolded on June 30, 2025, when DEA agents discovered a potentially large drug shipment at a Gainesville warehouse. Agents observed Jasso, Jr. and Pineda-Perez near a tractor-trailer containing boxes with cucumbers hiding thousands of methamphetamine packages. The total quantity seized exceeded 700 pounds.
Pineda-Perez is reportedly an illegal alien from Mexico with previous felony convictions and deportations from the United States. He was last deported after serving time for transporting cocaine.
Both men were charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine on July 1, 2025. Pineda-Perez also faces charges for illegal reentry by a removed alien.
The investigation involved multiple agencies including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Georgia State Patrol, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Assistant United States Attorney Johnny Baer is leading the prosecution.
This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative aimed at dismantling major drug trafficking organizations in Atlanta and Northern Georgia through collaborative efforts among various agencies.
Additionally, this case falls under Operation Take Back America which aims to combat illegal immigration and eliminate transnational criminal organizations affecting U.S communities.
For more information or inquiries about this case or other related matters, contact details are provided for further communication with relevant authorities.
