South San Jose, CA – Authorities in the Bay Area made a dramatic seizure over the weekend, confiscating approximately 500 pounds of methamphetamine during a search of a residence in South San Jose. Two people were booked on multiple charges after the operation, which local law enforcement called one of the largest drug seizures in the region in recent years.
The Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office said detectives with the Narcotics Unit executed a search warrant at a home on Seven Trees Boulevard, recovering contraband and evidence tied to a broader methamphetamine distribution investigation across Sonoma County.
The Seizure and How It Was Carried Out
Detectives working the investigation, assisted by the Narcotics Unit K-9 “Duke”, located and seized about 500 pounds of methamphetamine, along with $4,000 in cash and a loaded firearm. Law enforcement described the haul as a major disruption to local drug distribution networks.
“This significant seizure, believed to be one of the largest in Northern California in recent years, has undoubtedly made a substantial impact on the safety of our community,” the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.
Related Traffic Stop, Pursuit and Arrests
As the warrant was being executed, detectives conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle linked to the probe. Deputies reported that the driver initially complied but later fled, leading to a pursuit and a crash near the search location. The driver was not located after the crash.
Two suspects were arrested during the operation and booked into the Sonoma County Jail:
- Jose Ortiz-Rivera, 40, alleged to have used multiple aliases.
- Adela Lamas-Quintero, 47.
Charges, Bail and Next Court Date
Both suspects face a slate of charges tied to the alleged distribution and possession of illegal narcotics and related offenses. Authorities listed the following allegations:
- Possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute
- Transportation of a controlled substance
- Possession of narcotics while armed
- Possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person
- Offenses related to counterfeit identification documents and conspiracy
Following a request by detectives for a bail enhancement, a court set bail at $500,000 for each defendant. Jail records indicate the pair are scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday.
Community Impact and Law Enforcement Response
Officials framed the operation as a significant blow to meth distribution in the area, emphasizing public safety benefits from removing such a large quantity of illegal drugs and a loaded weapon from circulation. The seizure drew attention from neighboring jurisdictions concerned about cross-county trafficking routes.
Key facts at a glance:
- Location: Home on Seven Trees Boulevard, South San Jose
- Seizure: About 500 pounds of methamphetamine, $4,000 in cash, and a loaded firearm
- Assistance: Narcotics Unit K-9 “Duke”
- Arrests: Jose Ortiz-Rivera (40) and Adela Lamas-Quintero (47)
- Bail: $500,000 each; next court appearance on Tuesday
What Happens Next?
Investigators will likely continue pursuing leads related to distribution networks and any associates tied to the seized contraband. Prosecutors have multiple charges to review, and the court will address the bail enhancement and arraignment at the upcoming hearing.
Questions for Readers
Have you noticed unusual activity in your neighborhood? Community tips can be crucial to investigations of this scale. If you have information, contact local law enforcement.
What do you think about this seizure and its impact on public safety in the Bay Area? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
