Largest Drug Ring in Chesco History Tied to Mexican Cartel: DA

Law enforcement officials in Chester County say they've arrested 44 people in what they're calling the largest drug ring prosecution in the county's history.

The district attorney's office said Wednesday that 12 more people are still being sought on outstanding warrants in what has been a yearlong multi-agency probe targeting the Lemus Family, a major cocaine trafficking network with ties to a Mexican drug cartel.

Prosecutors said the cartel moved more than $60 million in cocaine through southern Chester County over the last 20 years.

District Attorney Tom Hogan said the investigation involved local police departments, state police, a regional drug enforcement task force, and federal agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration.

“They made Chester County a safer place to live, work and raise a family,” Hogan said.

Hogan said the ring has ties to “La Familia” cartel, one of Mexico's most violent drug trafficking organizations.

In 20 years, Hogan estimates the Lemas family sold about $100 million worth of cocaine.

““We certainly put a dent into it,” Hogan said. "Will we go back here in this area again? Absolutely. Will somebody try to fill his spot and take his money? Absolutely. Will we catch them too? Absolutely.”

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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