EVERETT — Snohomish Regional Drug Task Force detectives seized heroin, guns, cash and a stolen vehicle during their investigation into a drug trafficking organization operating in Snohomish County.
Several people were arrested last week in Marysville and Everett. Two of the suspects are being held on $500,000 bail. Immigration officials also have a hold on the men.
Detectives suspect that the group has ties to a Mexican drug cartel, task force Detective Brian Emery said. The alleged drug dealers also apparently have connections in Texas.
Investigators say the group is well organized and dealing in Snohomish County as well as neighboring counties.
Detectives have seized three pounds of heroin, Emery said. They found smaller amounts of methamphetamine and cocaine. Police also seized three handguns, a stolen car and $32,000 in cash, Emery said.
Police and health officials have seen an increase in heroin use. They believe some of the spike can be attributed to a boom in prescription drug abuse. Prescription pain killers such as OxyContin are more expensive and can be harder to obtain than street drugs.
Addicts may switch over to heroin, a cheaper substitute.
Diana Hefley: 425-339-3463; hefley@heraldnet.com.
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