Minnesota State Wire

Joel Casas-Santiago and Guillermo Mercado-Chaparro have been charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, with Mercado-Chaparro also facing charges of illegal reentry by a removed alien. The announcement was made by Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson.

Court documents reveal that an undercover officer purchased methamphetamine from Mercado-Chaparro, who was seen driving a Toyota Tacoma truck during the transaction. Surveillance showed Mercado-Chaparro traveling around south Minneapolis for suspected drug deals.

Police observed Mercado-Chaparro transferring garbage bags from the Tacoma to a Jeep Wrangler, which led to the discovery of over 250 pounds of methamphetamine in the vehicle. A subsequent search of the Tacoma revealed an additional 630 pounds of methamphetamine.

In total, nearly 900 pounds of methamphetamine were seized, marking one of Minnesota's largest drug busts. "This isn’t just another drug bust—it’s one of the largest methamphetamine seizures in Minnesota history," stated Acting United States Attorney Joseph H. Thompson. "A 900-pound haul like this doesn’t just show intent to distribute. It shows intent to poison entire communities."

The case is part of Operation Take Back America, a federal initiative involving multiple agencies including the Drug Enforcement Administration and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Allen Slaughter and Campbell Warner are handling prosecution duties.