Andres Jasso, Jr. and Rufino Pineda-Perez appeared in federal court following their arrest on charges related to the seizure of over 700 pounds of methamphetamine. The drugs were found concealed within a tractor-trailer load of cucumbers at a Gainesville warehouse.
U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg commented on the operation, stating, “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.” He emphasized that North Georgia would not be used as a distribution hub for illegal substances.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) played a key role in the investigation. Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division, remarked, “This case represents the continued commitment of the DEA to identify and hold accountable those who engage in the distribution of dangerous drugs.”
Details from U.S. Attorney Hertzberg reveal that DEA agents discovered the drugs after learning about potential drug activity involving a tractor-trailer at a Gainesville warehouse on June 30, 2025. During their surveillance, they observed Jasso and Pineda-Perez near the vehicle before uncovering thousands of individually wrapped packages containing methamphetamine hidden among cucumber boxes.
Pineda-Perez is reportedly an illegal alien from Mexico with previous deportations due to felony convictions. After serving time for past offenses involving drug transportation, he was deported twice but re-entered the United States illegally.
Jasso and Pineda-Perez face charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Pineda-Perez also faces additional charges for illegal reentry into the United States.
The public is reminded that criminal complaints are mere allegations until proven otherwise in court.
This case forms part of broader initiatives such as Operation Take Back America and involves collaboration between various agencies under programs like Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). The Atlanta Strike Force targets major drug trafficking operations across Georgia with support from multiple federal and local law enforcement entities.
Assistant United States Attorney Johnny Baer is leading prosecution efforts in this matter.
For more information regarding this case or related topics, contact details for the U.S. Attorney’s Office have been provided.
