Four Mexican nationals have been charged in a significant drug trafficking conspiracy involving the distribution of more than 30 kilograms of cocaine in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The case, which unfolded earlier this year, highlights ongoing law enforcement efforts to disrupt large-scale narcotics operations in the region.
Details of the Charges and Arrest
According to court documents, a federal grand jury returned an indictment on May 20, 2025, against four individuals accused of conspiring to distribute cocaine and methamphetamine in and around Green Bay. The defendants are:
- Ruben Salgado Espinoza, age 50, from Rockford, Illinois
- Pablo Sifuentes Navarro, age 20, from Rockford, Illinois
- Pedro Sifuentes Navarro, age 20, from Louisville, Kentucky
- Sanjuana Montenegro Ochoa, age 27, from Rockford, Illinois
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) reported that agents seized approximately 30 kilograms of cocaine on April 22, 2025, during a traffic stop involving vehicles occupied by the defendants in Green Bay. This seizure is notable for the large quantity of narcotics involved and the extent of the conspiracy.
Scope of the Conspiracy
Investigations reveal that the group was not only caught with the large shipment but also allegedly engaged in prior distribution activities. The defendants are accused of distributing and conspiring to distribute one kilogram of cocaine and one pound of methamphetamine before their arrest.
Court records also indicate that the defendants were anticipating a payment of $495,000 in exchange for the cocaine shipment, underscoring the high stakes and organized nature of the operation.
Immigration Status and Previous Deportations
All four individuals are Mexican nationals who entered the United States illegally. Ruben Salgado Espinoza, the senior member of the group, had previously been deported and was found back in the country unlawfully.
Potential Penalties
If convicted, each defendant faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison, with the possibility of life imprisonment given the large quantity of drugs involved. Federal drug trafficking laws impose stringent penalties for such offenses to deter large-scale narcotics distribution.
Collaborative Law Enforcement Efforts
The investigation was led by the DEA’s Green Bay Resident Office and involved close cooperation with multiple agencies, including:
- DEA Rockford
- Brown County Drug Task Force
- Lake Winnebago Area Metropolitan Enforcement Group – Drug Unit
- Wisconsin Department of Justice – Division of Criminal Investigation
These coordinated efforts highlight the strong partnerships among federal, state, and local law enforcement to combat drug trafficking networks.
Community Impact and Law Enforcement Statements
Green Bay officials have emphasized that drug trafficking brings serious risks to communities, including violence and addiction. The successful disruption of this conspiracy is seen as a positive step toward enhancing public safety.
Assistant United States Attorney Alex Duros, who is prosecuting the case, stated, “This indictment represents a major victory in our efforts to hold accountable those who seek to flood our communities with dangerous drugs. We remain committed to protecting Wisconsin residents from the harmful impacts of narcotics trafficking.