A routine investigation into a violent assault has led Ventura County detectives to a massive cache of drugs and cash. During the late weeks of November the Camarillo Special Enforcement Unit served a search warrant at a home on South Glenn Drive. What they found inside was far more than just evidence of an assault as they uncovered a significant drug operation operating right in the heart of the city.
⚖️ A Massive Haul of Narcotics and Cash
Inside the residence detectives located approximately 623 grams of cocaine which is well over a pound of the illicit substance. Along with the drugs they found specialized packaging material and over $7,000 in cash that is believed to be the direct profit from illegal drug sales. The seizure also included a loaded 9mm Ruger pistol that was unregistered which adds a dangerous element to the criminal charges.
The search gave police enough evidence to target 25 year old Leonardo Amador. He is now facing serious felony charges for possessing a controlled substance for sale and possessing a loaded firearm while in possession of drugs. These types of "loaded" charges are particularly heavy and show how the sheriff's office is cracking down on the intersection of drug trafficking and illegal weapons.
🚔 Arrests in Santa Paula and Jailhouse Confessions
The story did not end with the search in Camarillo. On December 13 Amador was spotted in Santa Paula by Fillmore Patrol deputies. He was with his 23 year old girlfriend Mariah Quintana at the time of the stop. During the arrest deputies searched the vehicle and found even more cocaine tucked away inside.
Both Amador and Quintana were taken to the Ventura County Main Jail. During the booking process things got even more serious for Quintana as she admitted to having more cocaine hidden on her person. She was booked for being under the influence of a controlled substance while Amador remains the primary target of the larger distribution investigation.
🛡️ Building a Safer Community Together
The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office officially filed charges on December 16. Because of the large quantity of cocaine seized they added special enhancements to the charges which could lead to a much longer stay in prison. The sheriff's office expressed their gratitude to the public for providing the tips and information that helped them solve this case.
Residents are encouraged to stay active in reporting suspicious activity to help keep these dangerous drugs and illegal guns off the streets. This bust is a major win for the Camarillo Special Enforcement Unit and a clear message to anyone trying to run a drug business in Ventura County. If you have information about similar crimes you can always call Crime Stoppers to remain anonymous and potentially earn a reward of up to $1,000.