A family-led criminal enterprise with direct ties to the Sinaloa Cartel has been dismantled following federal arrests in Los Angeles County, according to the Department of Justice.
Family-Run Trafficking Ring Dismantled
Federal prosecutors have charged five men—four of whom were arrested on April 14, 2026—with operating a trafficking ring between February 2024 and December 2025. The defendants include Lancaster residents José Luis Salazar-Cruz, 44; Alfonso Salazar, 46; and José Manuel Salazar, 22, along with Jorge Humberto Salazar, 43, of Hesperia.
According to the indictment, José Luis Salazar-Cruz coordinated the sales, while his relatives negotiated with suppliers and met customers for cash exchanges. The group allegedly trafficked narcotics and dangerous firearms, including a “street-sweeper” destructive device and an AR-style “ghost gun” lacking a serial number.
Federal prosecutors allege that this operation served as a significant pipeline for cartel-sourced narcotics into the Antelope Valley.
Ongoing Investigation
The current location of José Ángel López Paniagua, the fifth defendant named in the indictment, is unknown. Authorities believe Paniagua was a critical link to the Sinaloa Cartel, allegedly obtaining drugs from cartel members in Tijuana and Mexicali before providing them to the Salazar family.
It remains unclear if other family members or associates are being monitored as part of the ongoing “Operation Take Back America” initiative.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges do the defendants face?
The defendants face 29 criminal charges for allegedly trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine and firearms.
What could happen if the defendants are convicted?
If convicted of all charges, the defendants could face a sentence of between 10 years and life imprisonment.
Who is still at large in connection with this case?
José Ángel López Paniagua is currently being sought by law enforcement.
As the investigation continues, will authorities be able to dismantle further elements of this alleged cartel network?