PIMA COUNTY — Attorney General Kris Mayes announced on Friday the indictment of two individuals connected to a significant drug trafficking operation in southern Arizona. The case involves the seizure of over 75 pounds of fentanyl pills, along with other drugs, cash, and firearms.
A Pima County Grand Jury indicted Baltazar Quintero Bueno on 13 felony charges and Dalia Rodriguez De-Padilla on three felony charges for their roles in the possession and sale of fentanyl pills in the Tucson area between May and December 2024.
Details of the Operation
On December 23, 2024, the Arizona Department of Public Safety arrested Bueno during a traffic stop, where he was found transporting 4.65 pounds of fentanyl pills and .00134 pounds of cocaine with the intent to sell.
A subsequent search of Bueno’s residence uncovered:
- 73.3 pounds of fentanyl pills
- 1.75 pounds of fentanyl powder
- .355 pounds of methamphetamine
- $5,000 in cash
- Three pistols
Both Bueno and De-Padilla face charges of Conspiracy and Illegally Conducting an Enterprise. Additionally, they were charged with the sale of 2.45 pounds of fentanyl pills on May 28, 2024. Bueno faces separate charges for the sale of 2.25 pounds of fentanyl pills on June 11, 2024.
Court Proceedings
The two suspects were arraigned on January 9, 2025, and entered pleas of not guilty. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant Attorney General Sabrina Lochner.
Law Enforcement’s Commitment
“This case underscores our commitment to combating the trafficking of deadly drugs that threaten the safety of Arizona communities,” Attorney General Mayes said in a statement. “We will continue working with law enforcement partners to hold those responsible for drug crimes accountable.”
The Arizona Department of Public Safety led the investigation, which marks a significant step in addressing the fentanyl crisis impacting the state.