Digital Assignment Editor
, N.M. —
An Albuquerque woman is facing federal drug trafficking and firearm offenses after a Homeland Security Task Force Investigation allegedly recovered large quantities of fentanyl, heroin, cash, and firearms from her Albuquerque residence.
On Oct. 28, 2026, a search warrant was obtained for the residence of Angel Ramirez, 45, in northwest Albuquerque.
The search warrant was executed on Oct. 29, and agents entered the home and encountered Ramirez, the only adult inside the home, in the master bedroom. Inside the master bedroom, investigators allegedly located multiple duffel bags containing large quantities of narcotics, bulk U.S. currency, and numerous firearms. Laboratory field testing confirmed the presence of fentanyl and heroin.
According to court documents, Ramirez was employed as a paralegal for the New Mexico Department of Justice.
Investigators allege that Ramirez leveraged her government employment, clean criminal history, and internal access to the justice system to create a veneer of legitimacy while her residence operated as a distribution hub for narcotics, drug proceeds, and firearms.
In total, agents recovered approximately 43.75 kilograms of fentanyl powder, the largest seizure in New Mexico in the DEA’s history, 7.70 kilograms of fentanyl pills, 4.40 kilograms of heroin, and an additional 1,036 grams of fentanyl in a separate container. Investigators also located approximately 29 firearms and assorted ammunition inside and around a gun safe directly beneath the narcotics and cash.
Ramirez is charged with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
If convicted of the current charges, Ramirez faces a minimum of 15 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison writes in a statement, “With fentanyl overdose deaths on the rise in New Mexico, we have a lot more work to do. We will continue targeting the organizations bringing these drugs into our state and aggressively prosecuting those responsible.” This arrest is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion.
Ramirez remains in custody; her trial date has not yet been scheduled.
