Our California Statewide Law Enforcement Association (CSLEA) members who are special agents in the California Department of Justice (DOJ) assisted with a drug and firearms bust that has now resulted in eight convictions.

The United States Attorney’s Office announced Manuel Vasquez, 30, a Fresno bail bondsman, pleaded guilty Monday, March 4, 2013, to his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy and to holding and concealing 16 firearms for a convicted felon.  Those firearms included an Uzi submachine gun, two stolen handguns, three silencers and a grenade.

The methamphetamine trafficking organization was based in Kingsburg (Fresno County) and operated over a four year period. 

“DOJ special agents teamed up with local and federal law enforcement officers to get the job done,” said CSLEA President Alan Barcelona.  “Eight convictions, that’s  something to be proud of.  This likely means serious prison time for these people who turned otherwise nice communities into dangerous places to live. “

Vasquez faces 10 years to life in prison and a fine of up to $10 million for his drug conspiracy conviction and an additional 10 years and a fine of up to $250,000 for his firearm conviction.  He is scheduled to be sentenced May 13, 2013.