Rockford, IL – Two men have been arrested following the seizure of five kilograms of cocaine during a pair of coordinated drug investigations conducted by the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit. Authorities say the suspects were distributing large quantities of cocaine across the Rockford area.
The Incident: Coordinated Arrests in Rockford
According to the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office, the arrests took place on Thursday as part of two separate but related narcotics investigations. Deputies targeted individuals believed to be trafficking significant amounts of cocaine in the region.
The first suspect, Fernando Aviles, 38, was taken into custody in the 4000 block of Morsay Drive. During a search of his vehicle, officers discovered approximately 2 kilograms of cocaine.
Later that same day, investigators arrested Alexsandro Cervantes-Huerta, 24, in the 7800 block of East State Street. Deputies reported finding an additional 3 kilograms of cocaine inside his vehicle.
In total, authorities seized 5 kilograms of cocaine, which they estimate has a substantial street value.
Investigation and Evidence
The Winnebago County Sheriff’s Narcotics Unit stated that both arrests stemmed from independent investigations that eventually converged as detectives identified overlapping distribution networks in the Rockford area.
The operation involved surveillance efforts, vehicle tracking, and coordination between multiple law enforcement units. Officials said the goal was to disrupt what they described as a “significant drug supply channel” operating locally.
“These arrests represent an ongoing effort to combat narcotics trafficking and reduce the availability of illegal drugs in Winnebago County,” a sheriff’s office spokesperson said.
Authorities did not disclose whether the two suspects were connected or working together but confirmed that both cases are being reviewed by the State’s Attorney’s Office for potential additional charges.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Both Aviles and Cervantes-Huerta have been charged with possession with intent to deliver over 900 grams of cocaine, a Class X felony under Illinois law. The charge carries a potential prison sentence of 15 to 60 years, depending on prior criminal history and the outcome of court proceedings.
The men are currently being held in the Winnebago County Jail pending pretrial detention hearings. Court dates have not yet been announced.
If convicted, the defendants could face significant fines and forfeiture of assets tied to the alleged drug operation.
Community and Law Enforcement Response
Local officials praised the narcotics unit’s success in seizing such a large quantity of cocaine, calling the arrests a major step in curbing local drug activity. Residents have expressed growing concern over drug trafficking and violent crime linked to narcotics distribution in the Rockford area.
Community leaders say this latest operation highlights the importance of proactive policing and collaboration between regional law enforcement agencies.
Authorities are also encouraging the public to report suspected drug activity to the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office or Crime Stoppers, stressing that community involvement plays a vital role in ongoing drug prevention efforts.
Background: Cocaine Distribution in Northern Illinois
Law enforcement agencies across Northern Illinois have reported a rise in cocaine trafficking, particularly in urban and suburban areas along major interstate corridors. Rockford’s proximity to I-39 and I-90 has made it a strategic location for drug transport and distribution.
This case adds to a series of recent cocaine seizures in the region, underscoring the continued focus of local and federal agencies on dismantling supply networks.
Ongoing Developments
Authorities say the investigation is still active and additional arrests may follow. The Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office is working to determine whether the seized narcotics are tied to a larger drug trafficking organization.
Both suspects will remain in custody until their next court appearance, and officials plan to release further updates as the case progresses.
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