Tri-County Drug Enforcement Team arrests suspected meth trafficker

ELKO - An investigation initiated by the Tri-County Drug Enforcement Team (TRIDENT) led to the Dec. 18 arrest of Veronica Abarca-Fregoso, 34, a suspected major source of supply of methamphetamine throughout the central region of rural Nevada, according to a news release from TRIDENT.

The Nevada Department of Public Safety said that the investigation was a combined effort between the multi-agency Elko Combined Narcotics Unit (ECNU), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the FBI.

Abarca-Fregoso was taken into custody after the execution of a federal search warrant at her Elko home revealed five ounces of methamphetamine, assorted drug paraphernalia, $5,000, and one vehicle, according to the DPS.

DPS said she is charged in a five-count indictment related to the distribution of a controlled substance and conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, DPS said.

"As we continue to identify individuals who willingly introduce major drugs into our communities for the purpose of personal gain without concern for the welfare of our communities, we will use every tool available to reduce criminal activity and reduce the flow of illegal drugs," said James Mercado, Lt. with the Nevada Department of Public Safety Investigation Division, Central Command. "The Nevada Department of Public Safety looks forward to working with our fellow law enforcement agencies and our federal counterparts in a partnership to reduce threats to public safety."

The Tri-County Drug Enforcement Team consists of the Humboldt County Sheriff's office, Lander County Sheriff's office, Pershing County Sheriff's office, Winnemucca Police Department, Lovelock Police Department, and the Nevada Department of Public Safety.

TRIDENT appreciates and encourages the community's support with their narcotic investigations and welcomes information from the public concerning sales of illicit drugs. The Tri-County Drug Enforcement Team can be reached at (775) 623-6525; any tips can be made anonymously.

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