Juan Perez-Maldonado and Francisco Garcia Gomez, both undocumented immigrants from Mexico, were in federal court on June 4, 2025. They faced charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Additionally, Garcia Gomez and another Mexican national, Filemon Hernandez-Jijon, were charged with possession of a firearm by an alien unlawfully present in the United States.
U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg stated that law enforcement swiftly disrupted a suburban drug lab, seized firearms, and arrested two individuals allegedly involved in methamphetamine manufacturing and distribution. He emphasized that those trafficking illegal drugs will be prosecuted promptly.
Jae W. Chung of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Atlanta Division noted that keeping communities safe is their top priority by removing dangerous drugs and bringing criminals to justice.
Court information revealed that DEA agents observed Hernandez-Jijon supplying methamphetamine in Smyrna, Georgia on June 3, 2025. Agents later searched a mobile home in Marietta where they found Perez-Maldonado and Garcia Gomez along with an active meth lab and firearms.
A subsequent search at an apartment in Smyrna uncovered more weapons and identification for Perez-Maldonado. Both Perez-Maldonado and Hernandez-Jijon had been deported previously.
Hernandez-Jijon remains a fugitive; authorities urge anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact local law enforcement.
The public is reminded that charges are not evidence of guilt; the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This investigation involved the DEA with assistance from local narcotics units and police departments. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Schwarzl and Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebeca M. Ojeda are handling prosecution duties.
The case is part of Operation Take Back America aimed at combating illegal immigration and organized crime threats through coordinated efforts across justice departments.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office encourages education about drug dangers via www.justthinktwice.gov for parents and children seeking more information.
For further details, contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office or visit their website as listed above.
