Fentanyl, firearms, and cash seized by the DEA
45 year old Angel Ramirez, 45, a former paralegal with the Bernalillo County District Attorney’s Office and a recent hire at the New Mexico Department of Justice, was arrested after investigators discovered fentanyl, heroin, large amounts of cash, and firearms in her home during a search on October 29.
“The fact that we are announcing the largest fentanyl powder seizure in state history tells us just how serious the drug trafficking problem is in New Mexico,” said Ryan Ellison, First Assistant United States Attorney.
Ramirez’s father, who lives next door, defended his daughter when approached.
“She wasn’t dealing drugs out of here?”, asked KOAT reporter John Rupolo.
“No, she’s never dealt drugs, and she was actually hateful toward fentanyl because where she worked, she saw a lot of the problems with it,” said George Ramirez.
Investigators allege that Ramirez used her government employment, clean criminal record, and access to the justice system to create an air of legitimacy while her home operated as a distribution hub for narcotics and firearms.
Neighbors expressed shock at the allegations.
The home of Angel Ramirez is in a heavily populated area. Neighbors said they had no idea alleged drug activity was taking place.
Ruth Pena, who has lived in the neighborhood for 40 years, was stunned by the news.
“Right across the street from my house,” she said.
Pena’s friend, Louisa Gilani, who has lived with her for two years, also expressed disbelief.
“Right across the street from your house… wow, the largest… wow,” Gilani said.
Gilani recalled seeing a heavy law enforcement presence at Ramirez’s house last week but was unsure of the reason.
“Well, my concern is that if it was, if that was going on, then how were they transporting and taking it out and getting it in and out?” she said.
The New Mexico Department of Justice terminated Ramirez following her arrest. She remains in federal custody on several felony drug charges.
