SAN ANTONIO – A new effort to combat fentanyl distribution and related violence is underway in San Antonio. Recently, a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)-led task force launched after a thorough investigation led to the search of three homes in the West Side area of the city. Federal and local authorities announced this initiative on Monday.
The investigation targeted homes located in the 1000 block of Torreon Street, a neighborhood close to local schools. Authorities revealed that fentanyl—a powerful and often deadly synthetic opioid—was being distributed in this area.
U.S. Attorney Justin Simmons reported that on October 1, search warrants were executed at the three homes, leading to multiple arrests. Three individuals—Valerie Samaniego, Alfredo Alejandro, and Alejandro Reyes—were federally charged with possession with intent to distribute narcotics.
Samaniego was found with fentanyl and a handgun. During questioning, she admitted to knowing the dangers of fentanyl but claimed she only sold it to people who could handle it. Meanwhile, Alejandro was accused of possessing methamphetamine, cocaine, and a mixture of fentanyl and heroin, along with a shotgun and an AR-15 rifle. Investigators also discovered scales and baggies typically used for drug distribution in his home.
Reyes faced charges for possessing fentanyl and heroin and allegedly making drug sales outside the residence. If convicted, all three defendants could face between five to 40 years in federal prison.
Notably, the homes involved in this investigation were located within 1,000 feet of De Zavala Elementary School and less than a mile from Lanier High School, raising concerns about the safety of local students.
New Overdose Task Force
These arrests mark the first operation of the new DEA-led overdose task force, which collaborates with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. San Antonio Police Chief Jesse Salame announced that the SAPD will assign five detectives to this task force. Their responsibilities will include responding to overdose calls, identifying leads for investigations, and building cases for prosecution with partners at various levels.
“This isn’t just about the overdose itself. It’s about getting to the people behind the drugs,” Salame emphasized. The SAPD has responded to around 150 overdose calls each month this year, highlighting the urgent need for action.
Additionally, the task force aims to address gang-related violent crime. Investigators have observed that local gangs significantly contribute to drug distribution in San Antonio neighborhoods. This task force operates under the Homeland Security Task Force, aiming to use overdose investigations to uncover larger drug trafficking networks.
Ultimately, authorities hope to trace drugs back to their suppliers, disrupting trafficking networks that affect the safety of San Antonio communities.
