RE: RELEASE: Task force arrests armed drug trafficker who targeted juveniles
Resharing this information in case it slipped through earlier. I didn’t notice it in your afternoon broadcasts and wanted to be sure you had it on hand in case it’s helpful for your coverage.
H. L. Lovato
505 / 827 3316
From: PIO, DPS, DPS < DPS.PIO@dps.nm.gov >
Sent: Monday, August 11, 2025 2:47 PM
Subject: RELEASE: Task force arrests armed drug trafficker who targeted juveniles
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham
New Mexico Department of Public Safety
Cabinet Secretary Jason R. Bowie
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 11, 2025
Contact:
New Mexico Department of Public Safety
H. L. LOVATO, dps.pio@dps.nm.gov
Task force arrests armed drug trafficker who targeted juveniles
Santa Fe – A joint law enforcement operation removed an alleged armed drug dealer off the streets after investigators said he used social media to sell firearms and narcotics, including to at least one juvenile.
“We will not tolerate criminals who peddle deadly drugs and illegal firearms in our communities—especially when they target our children,” said Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham . “This arrest reflects our commitment to using every resource at the state’s disposal, including the Organized Crime Commission, to dismantle these dangerous networks and keep New Mexicans safe.”
The August 7 arrest of Joseph Montoya, also known as High Rolla , was the result of a coordinated investigation by the New Mexico Organized Crime Commission (OCC), the New Mexico State Police (NMSP), and the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO). Undercover agents purchased drugs from Montoya on multiple occasions and a firearm on one occasion, leading to charges of:
Three counts of trafficking a controlled substance One count of conspiracy to commit trafficking a controlled substance One count of tampering with evidence
The OCC through the Second Judicial District Attorney’s Office, has filed a preventative detention motion to keep Montoya in custody pending trial.
DPS Cabinet Secretary Jason R. Bowie praised the unified law enforcement response.
“This case underscores the power of coordinated law enforcement partnerships in protecting our communities from dangerous individuals who traffic in guns and drugs,” said Bowie ,. “I commend the Governor’s Organized Crime Commission, the State Police, and the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office for their dedication to this investigation. Their teamwork ensured that a dangerous offender is no longer in a position to harm our youth or our neighborhoods.”
Organized Crime Commission Director Rob Hart emphasized the collaborative strategy.
“This case is a textbook example of what happens when agencies break down silos and work together toward a common mission,” said Rob Hart , director of the Organized Crime Commission. “By sharing intelligence and resources, we are disrupting organized criminal activity and sending a clear message: if you prey on New Mexicans, we will find you and we will bring you to justice.”
The Department of Public Safety remains committed to working alongside state, local, and federal partners to combat organized crime and protect New Mexico’s communities.
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New Mexico Department of Public Safety is dedicated to the protection of human life and property, providing vital leadership, scientific support, training, and operational assistance to the criminal justice community and the public. Through ongoing collaboration and communication, we strive to enhance the safety and well-being of everyone in our community.