(Photo Credit: Los Angeles Daily News)

Two of the five suspects arrested in relation to a major drug bust in Los Angeles last week were arraigned this past Friday in court, pleading not guilty.

Eddie Perez and Jose Garcia Samano were brought before the Criminal Justice Center in Los Angeles on Friday for the reading of the charges against them. Mr. Perez and Mr. Samano are each being held on $5 million bail.

The charges arise out of an ongoing investigation into drug trafficking by the Los Angeles Interagency Metropolitan Police Apprehension Crime Task Force, which culminated this past Wednesday in the suspects’ arrest.

Law enforcement officials reportedly witnessed one of the suspects engage in a narcotics transaction last Tuesday night, and after stopping the suspects’ car discovered over 100 pounds of cocaine.

Police investigators discovered over 550 pounds of cocaine in another suspect’s garage the following morning. Police reportedly believe the suspects may have ties to a Mexican drug cartel. 

A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for June 17. By then, the defendants’ attorneys will have received more information about the case and the charges against their clients.

No matter how major or minor the charges, a suspect is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Criminal defendants have significant constitutional rights that must be protected in our justice system.

If you or someone you know is being investigated or has been charged with a crime, contact the Law Office of Ronald G. Brower to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney to ensure that your rights are protected.