California police seize nearly 500 pounds of meth in massive $500,000 drug bust

(FOX40.COM) — Two people were arrested after a massive drug bust in California uncovered nearly 500 pounds of methamphetamine.
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On Sept. 6, the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant in the 3000 block of Seven Trees Boulevard in San Jose as part of an extensive investigation into methamphetamine distribution in Sonoma County.

With assistance from the SCSO narcotics unit’s K9, Duke, detectives reportedly seized about 500 pounds of methamphetamine.

“This significant seizure, believed to be one of the largest in Northern California in recent years, has undoubtedly made a substantial impact on the safety of our community,” SCSO said. “Additional items seized included approximately $4,000 in cash and a loaded firearm.”

The primary suspect, identified by law enforcement as Jose Ortiz-Rivera, 40, was found to be using multiple aliases and was arrested. Additionally, Adela Lamas-Quintero, 47, was arrested. Both suspects face numerous charges related to drug sales, distribution, illegal firearms, fraud, and conspiracy. They were booked into the Sonoma County Jail with bail set at $500,000 each.

While the search warrant was being executed, detectives said they pulled over a vehicle that was linked to the target of the investigation for a traffic stop. According to SCSO, the driver complied at first, but then fled, leading to a pursuit that ended in a crash at a nearby intersection. The driver fled on foot and barricaded himself inside a nearby residence unrelated to him.

The San Jose Police Department responded to assist, but despite an extensive search, the driver was not located.