South Oregon News

The Medford Area Drug and Gang Enforcement (MADGE) and their interagency task force team, comprised primarily of detectives and crime analysts from the Medford Police Department and Jackson County Sheriff's Office, received the Team Award from the City during the June 15 Council meeting. The team was recognized for a culmination of a two-year investigation into a wide-reaching drug distribution network.

MADGE detectives have been investigating a repeat drug dealer and his drug trafficking organization since February 2020 for selling large amounts of cocaine in Jackson County. Through the investigation, MADGE detectives were able to confirm that cocaine was being distributed from the Mexico border at ports in California and in Texas. The source of these drugs was confirmed to be a Mexican cartel. The drugs were transported from Tijuana to Oregon where they were distributed.

On January 24, 2023, MADGE and Illegal Marijuana Enforcement Team (IMET) detectives began serving search warrants on the suspects and his co-conspirators. In five days, MADGE and IMET detectives, with the assistance of Jackson County Sheriff's Office deputies, Oregon State Police, Rogue Area Drug Enforcement Team (RADE), Grants Pass Police Department, the Department of Homeland Security and Medford Police detectives, served 28 search warrants at various locations within Jackson County. A total of 26 suspects were identified within this drug trafficking organization. Detectives seized numerous counts of illegal drugs, firearms and cash. 

Medford Police and Jackson County Sheriff's Office were recognized for their hard work on this complex investigation, as well as their dedication to keeping our community safe. 

"The team members receiving this award take great satisfaction in the positive impact that they have made on our community," said City Manager, Brian Sjothun. "Together, they have made Medford a better place to live, work and play."

Original source can be found here