Andres Jasso, Jr. and Rufino Pineda-Perez appeared in federal court following their arrest for allegedly trafficking over 700 pounds of methamphetamine hidden within a load of cucumbers in Gainesville, Georgia. U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg stated that "thanks to the diligent work of our federal and state law enforcement partners, a tremendous amount of meticulously concealed methamphetamine was located, was seized, and will never hit the street."
The operation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Atlanta Division with assistance from local agencies. According to Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division, "this case represents the continued commitment of the DEA to identify and hold accountable those who engage in the distribution of dangerous drugs."
On June 30, 2025, agents discovered a tractor-trailer at a Gainesville warehouse containing 20 pallets of boxes filled with cucumbers and packages of methamphetamine. Jasso and Pineda-Perez were found in a sedan nearby and were tasked with offloading the shipment.
Pineda-Perez is reportedly an illegal immigrant from Mexico with a history of felony convictions related to drug trafficking. He has been deported twice previously but re-entered the United States illegally.
Both individuals have been charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, while Pineda-Perez faces an additional charge for illegal reentry.
The investigation involved multiple agencies under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative aimed at dismantling major drug traffickers and transnational criminal organizations.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, focusing on combatting illegal immigration and organized crime. The prosecution is led by Assistant United States Attorney Johnny Baer.
Authorities remind that charges are not proof of guilt; defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
For more information on drug dangers, visit www.justthinktwice.gov or contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office.