HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011_12_15_Task Force Operation
BAKERSFIELD POLICE
DEPARTMENT
PRESS RELEASE
Greg Williamson, Chief of Police
Contact:
Sergeant Mary DeGeare
Bakersfield Police Department
(661)326-3803
For Immediate Release December 15, 2011
The United States Drug Enforcement Administration / Bakersfield Police Department Joint Task Force
initiated an investigation into a large-scale drug distribution operation occurring in the greater Bakersfield
area. An extensive multi-agency investigation was conducted with representatives from the Bakersfield
Police Department, United States Drug Enforcement Agency, Kern County Sheriff’s Office, and members
of the Southern Tri-County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (STC-HIDTA).
On 12/13/2011, the investigation led to a vehicle stop conducted in Tulare County by the Tulare County
Sheriff’s Department. The vehicle was driven by Moises Garcia (44) of Bakersfield. A search of the
vehicle revealed approximately 10lbs of suspected methamphetamine.
Three search warrants were subsequently executed throughout the City of Bakersfield and Lamont area
resulting in the overall seizure of approximately 22 lbs. of solid methamphetamine, approximately123 lbs.
of methamphetamine in solution and currency. During the execution of one of those warrants, a second
suspect, Ismael Garcia (41) of Bakersfield, was discovered attempting to destroy the suspected
methamphetamine by dumping the narcotics into a clothes washing machine filled with water. Garcia
was prevented from destroying any further evidence and arrested.
The combined street value of the methamphetamine seized was approximately $5,266,400. The total
value of currency seized was $144,000. Three vehicles were determined to be involved in the illicit
operation and seized. There were two rifles and two handguns that were also seized as part of the
investigation.
Moises Garcia and Ismael Garcia were both arrested for Conspiracy and Distribution of a Controlled
Substance. This case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of
California.
Anyone with information regarding this case is encouraged to call the Bakersfield Police Department at
(661) 327-7111.