A federal judge in El Paso, Texas has scheduled a trial hearing for June 3 concerning two San Diego women accused of recruiting minors to transport drugs from Mexico through a border crossing.

Allegations Against Shannon Pollard and Amy Lennen

Shannon Pollard and Amy Lennen are facing charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, all while allegedly being armed with firearms. These charges stem from seizures made at various locations in San Diego, including a public storage facility and a residential home. Authorities confiscated a significant amount of illegal substances, including 46.1 pounds of methamphetamine and 4,493 fentanyl pills. Additionally, they found several firearms, including AR-15 and AK-47 rifles, along with stolen passports and drivers’ licenses.

Investigation Details

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) initiated the investigation after receiving information from an informant regarding Lennen’s involvement in drug trafficking. The informant claimed that Lennen had offered to sell methamphetamine to a known narcotics distributor. Furthermore, the informant stated that Lennen mentioned a woman named Natalie who allegedly recruited children to carry fentanyl and other drugs across the border from Mexico.

The DEA coordinated with the Carlsbad Police Department, which was already investigating an illicit drug supplier believed to be Pollard. This collaboration led to the discovery of additional evidence linking the women to drug trafficking activities.

Arrests and Legal Proceedings

Following surveillance and investigation, law enforcement obtained a court order to place a tracking device on Lennen’s vehicle. This led them to two suspected locations where drugs were stored. Subsequent raids on these locations resulted in the seizure of drugs, firearms, and other incriminating evidence. Pollard, who was allegedly leasing both properties under a false identity, was arrested for violating probation on a previous federal charge. Lennen was arrested later, followed by Pollard’s re-arrest on charges related to drugs and firearms.

Both women have entered pleas of not guilty and are currently awaiting trial after waiving indictment.

Law Enforcement Efforts to Combat Drug Trafficking

San Diego has been a focal point for drug trafficking into the United States. Last year, federal and local law enforcement agencies collaborated on Operation Blue Lotus, aimed at curbing the surge of fentanyl and other hard drugs along the border. This operation resulted in the seizure of 4,721 pounds of fentanyl and the arrest of 200 individuals involved in smuggling, trafficking, and drug dealing activities.

Randy Grossman, former U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of California, emphasized the significance of law enforcement efforts in combating the drug crisis. He highlighted the importance of seizing illegal substances and apprehending those involved in drug-related crimes to prevent fatal overdoses and curb drug trafficking activities.

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Conclusion: Upholding Law and Order Against Drug Trafficking

The trial of Shannon Pollard and Amy Lennen underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat drug trafficking across the U.S.-Mexico border. As authorities continue to crack down on illicit activities, it reaffirms the commitment to uphold law and order and protect communities from the devastating effects of drug abuse and trafficking.

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