Federal authorities have charged an Albuquerque resident in connection with a major drug trafficking operation following an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). According to court documents, Jose Magana Garcia, identified as a Mexican national unlawfully present in the United States, was implicated as a fentanyl trafficker and source of supply after an undercover operation on August 13, 2025.
During this operation, Garcia allegedly delivered about 2,000 fentanyl pills to an undercover officer through intermediaries. DEA agents later tracked him to a northeast Albuquerque apartment where they observed suspected drug transactions and counter-surveillance driving.
On August 27, 2025, law enforcement executed a search warrant at the apartment and found Garcia inside. The search led to the discovery of more than 8 kilograms of fentanyl pills, over 4 kilograms of heroin, and nearly 35 grams of methamphetamine hidden in a couch. Agents also seized packaging materials and prepackaged doses consistent with distribution activities.
Garcia faces charges of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and heroin. He will remain in custody pending trial. If convicted, he could receive a sentence ranging from ten years to life in prison.
U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison stated: “An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.” Omar Arellano, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s El Paso Division, joined Ellison in announcing the charges.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA Office with support from the Second Judicial District Attorney’s Office Special Investigations Bureau and the Laguna Pueblo Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Elena Stiteler is prosecuting the case.
