Conviction in Major Meth Trafficking Case
A significant development has occurred in a major methamphetamine trafficking case in Minnesota, with a fifth individual being convicted. Eric Anthony Rodriguez, aged 47, was found guilty of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. This verdict was reached after a six-day trial in the U.S. District Court under Judge Susan R. Nelson.
Background of the Drug Trafficking Network
The convicted individual was part of the ‘Diaz-Aguilar Drug Trafficking Organization,’ which operated extensively across Minnesota from April 2024 to March 2025. This organization was responsible for moving large quantities of methamphetamine, often in shipments weighing hundreds of pounds, into the state.
The leader of this network, Erick Emilio Diaz-Aguilar, aged 33, had previously entered a guilty plea. Other members who have pleaded guilty include Juan Martin Elvira Jr., 36, Edward Gonzalez, 30, and Bruce Michael Orton, 44.
Seizures and Law Enforcement Actions
During the investigation, which lasted nearly a year, law enforcement agencies seized approximately 60 pounds of methamphetamine, 1,500 fentanyl pills, and over $20,000 in cash. Raids were conducted on stash houses located in Columbia Heights, Hastings, and Rochester.
In November 2025, Rodriguez was apprehended during a coordinated traffic stop, where officers recovered three pounds of methamphetamine from his vehicle. Evidence presented at the trial indicated that he had been involved in receiving and distributing dozens more pounds of the drug.
Connection to the Sinaloa Cartel
Federal authorities have confirmed that this drug trafficking organization had ties to the Sinaloa cartel, a well-known Mexican transnational criminal group. The cartel has a long history of involvement in significant drug operations within the United States.
Rodriguez is awaiting sentencing, which will be determined at a later date.
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