A multi-agency drug trafficking operation that began last summer ended Thursday with a big takedown in Sacramento and Placer counties, according to the Placer County Sheriff’s Office.
“Operation Meltdown” targeted a large-scale methamphetamine trafficking network linked to a Mexican drug trafficking organization and two Sacramento-area gangs, PSCSO said. Investigators estimated the group distributed roughly 500 pounds of meth monthly in the region.
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“Illegal drugs have no place in Placer County. Those who bring them here will be located, arrested, and prosecuted,” the sheriff’s office said.
Officials reported that search and arrest warrants were executed simultaneously at 25 locations in Sacramento County, the City of Sacramento, Placer County, and Elk Grove.
PSCSO said that 17 individuals, ranging in age from 19 to 82, were detained and put into Placer County Jail. Everyone is expected to face charges from the Placer County District Attorney’s Office.
The sheriff’s office has announced the names of those arrested:
- Esteban Ortega, 39
- Loc Dinh, 33
- Robert Stewart, 61
- Junior Mai, 27
- Alejandro Herrera, 41
- Kevin Berry, 51
- Laeilia Leffler, 42
- Michael Elliot, 41
- Julian Montano, 32
- Joe Saetern, 28
- Shawnray Shermer, 35
- Theodore St. Andre, 41
- Thomas Wood, 55
- Don Wedgeworth, 82
- Carl Spinella, 55
- Joshua Seaphanh, 19
- Jennifer Lowry, 46
The sheriff’s office reported that deputies confiscated 65 pounds of methamphetamine, 7.25 kilograms of cocaine, half a pound of MDMA, 26 guns, over $100,000 in cash, and a DMT lab.
According to PSCO, the investigation began in July 2025, when an undercover detective purchased many pounds of meth in North Auburn.
Detectives from the Placer County Special Operations Unit, working with the Placer Special Investigations Unit, spent eight months mapping the network and determining its sources.
“We applaud the Placer County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations detectives for their expertise, persistence, and dedication, which made this operation possible,” PCSO said. “We also thank our partner agencies for their critical support in serving warrants and ensuring the operation’s success.”
