Narcotics Division
In 2013, the DA's Narcotics Division continued its extraordinary cooperation with other law enforcement agencies to prosecute illegal drug-related offenses. Led by Division Chief Tom Manning and Assistant Chief Steve Walter, notable prosecutions during the year included:
Operation A-Team
An undercover operation at four San Diego County high schools conducted by the San Diego Sheriff's Office in response to a rise in prescription drug abuse. The operation began with undercover deputies enrolling in and attending Mission Hills High School, Poway High School, Abraxas High School, and Ramona High School with the goals of identifying the prevalence of drugs and those who were selling to underage teens. During the operation, undercover deputies were able to purchase narcotics at each high school, except Abraxas, and made purchases at off campus locations that were frequented by students. Drugs purchased during the operation include marijuana, cocaine, heroin, oxycodone, and other prescription drugs. Six juveniles and 10 adults were arrested, all resulting in successful prosecutions by Deputy District Attorneys Shanish Aloor and Jorge Del Portillo.
Operation Boone's Farm
Operation Boone's Farm began in late 2012 when law enforcement officers learned the source of supply for several methamphetamine dealers in the county originated from the Mission Bay Sportcenter. DEA Agents sought the assistance of District Attorney's Office to obtain a wiretap order for the phones of the major players involved in the ring, including the owner of the Mission Bay Sportcenter, Jason Boone. With the help of Deputy District Attorneys Rori Robinson and Allison Fomon, the court granted the wiretap application and the operation was a success. The operation was concluded in early June just before the summer camp for children was set to begin. During the course of the investigation, operatives conducted several "buy-walk" operations and made eight arrests. Five pounds of methamphetamine, one ounce of heroin, marijuana and prescription pills were seized in the operation. Additionally, agents recovered a loaded firearm, a bulletproof vest, and over $48,000 in cash and assets. The prosecutions were handled by Deputy District Attorney Jorge Del Portillo.
The division continues to direct San Diego County's JUDGE Program (Jurisdictions United for Drug and Gang Enforcement). The program consists of federal, state, and local law enforcement officers who target high-risk felons. In addition, the Narcotics Division handles federal and state asset forfeiture matters, and assists law enforcement with proactive projects in specific high-crime areas.
