On November 26, 2024, the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO), in a coordinated effort between the BCSO Metro Unit, Violent Crimes Unit, Auto Theft Unit, Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Unit, and the United States Marshals Service (USMS) executed a critical search warrant at 329 Pennsylvania St NE, Apartment C. This operation was part of an ongoing investigation linked to a recent incident where a vehicle was used in an attempt to run over a deputy from the BCSO Metro Unit.

Arrests Made:

  • Richard Cortez (44) was arrested on charges of Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl and Felon in Possession of a Firearm (three counts).
  • Michael Herrera (18), currently on probation, was arrested for Resisting/Evading Arrest, in addition to violating his probation conditions related to prior charges of Aggravated Assault on a Peace Officer, Aggravated Fleeing from Law Enforcement, Receiving/Transferring Stolen Motor Vehicle, Unlawful Taking of Motor Vehicle, and Unlawful Carrying of a Deadly Weapon.

Evidence Seized:

  • Over 65,000 Fentanyl pills, highlighting a significant narcotics operation.
  • Three firearms were confiscated as part of the crackdown on illegal weapons possession associated with criminal activities.
  • An additional vehicle was seized, further linking the suspects to ongoing criminal activities.

Sheriff John Allen’s Statement: “Since assuming office, one of my primary objectives was to establish a BCSO Metro Unit dedicated to proactive patrols across Bernalillo County, with a particular focus on the Albuquerque Metro Area. The success of today’s operation is a testament to the determination and bravery of our BCSO Metro Unit deputies, who are relentless in tracking down and dismantling the core elements driving criminal activity in our community. These deputies are not just proactive but are also unafraid to confront the challenges head-on. As we anticipate further expansion of this unit, I am confident in their continued impact in making Albuquerque a safer place for everyone. Their efforts do not just stop crime; they deter it, making a clear difference throughout our community.”

Pre-detention motions have been filed for these two and their cases won’t be heard till after the Thanksgiving holiday. Cortez and Herrera will be enjoying Thanksgiving dinner at the MDC.

Bynewsdesk

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8 thoughts on “BCSO Arrest Duo Who Have Ties to Drug Enterprise, Over 65,000 Drug Pills Seized”
  1. Good work Sheriff Allen. I compliment you as you certainly are working proactively to stop this poison from entering our communities and hence aggravating the homeless situation. Hopefully the judicial system will do their job and put this scum trash behind bars for a very long time.

  2. For some reason it makes me think of all these Car Washes that just pop up out of no where on the west side. What’s the deal with 5 car washes within less than 3 miles of each other?

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