A major methamphetamine trafficking ring operating between California and Arkansas has been dismantled by federal agents, resulting in the seizure of approximately 312 pounds of the illicit substance.

Operation Return to Sender

The operation, dubbed Operation Return to Sender, led to the indictment of 23 individuals, with 13 arrests made in Arkansas, California, and Texas. The investigation, which began in 2024, involved the use of nine court-authorized wiretaps and the seizure of four firearms and $35,000 in cash.

According to prosecutors, the trafficking organization was directed by Christerious Wooten, 34, of North Little Rock, and involved the transportation of money from Arkansas to the Los Angeles area to pay alleged supplier Ronji Hill, 57, of Los Angeles. The methamphetamine was then shipped to residential addresses in Pulaski and Chicot counties and elsewhere in the Eastern District of Arkansas.

The indictment alleges that members of the organization maintained or purchased residential properties in Little Rock, North Little Rock, and Los Angeles to distribute methamphetamine and convert drug proceeds into real estate.

U.S. Attorney Jonathan D. Ross stated that the investigation and subsequent arrests demonstrate the commitment to combating the methamphetamine epidemic in Arkansas. Ross noted that methamphetamine is the leading cause of death among Arkansans who die from drug overdoses, according to data from the Arkansas State Crime Lab.

Original reporting: NEA Report (Jonesboro) — read the source article.