July 1, 2023 - Ventura County Sheriff's Office officials report that two Long Beach residents who were involved in the importation and distribution of fentanyl, heroin and methamphetamine into Ventura County were arrested.

Investigators assigned to the Ventura County Narcotics Street Team (NST) identified a Simi Valley resident responsible for the distribution of illegal substances to residents of Ventura County.  Members of the Ventura County Combined Agency Team (VCAT) in collaboration with investigators with the Ventura County Fentanyl and Overdose Crimes Unit (VCFOCUS), initiated an investigation targeting the individuals responsible for the supply of these deadly drugs into Ventura County.

During the months of May and June 2023, investigators identified Long Beach residents, Efren Sanchez and Hector Valle as the sources of supply for methamphetamine, heroin and fentanyl.  During the ensuing investigation, investigators seized narcotics from Sanchez and Valle, destined for Ventura County.

Based on the facts of the investigation, investigators obtained a search warrant authorizing the search of Efren Sanchez, Hector Valle, their residences, and a vehicle upholstery shop.  Investigators developed probable cause to believe Hector Valle was utilizing the upholstery shop to store, package and distribute his narcotics.

On June 16, 2023, investigators took Valle and Sanchez into custody. Following their arrest, investigators executed the search warrant at Sanchez’ residence, located in the 2200 block of Cota Avenue, City of Long Beach.  During the search, investigators seized several firearms, U.S. currency believed to be derived from drug sales and two vehicles used during a commission of a crime.  Investigators served the search warrant at Valle’s residence located in the 100 block of 69th Street, City of Long Beach.  During the search, investigators located several firearms and additional evidence linking Valle to the residence.

Investigators also searched the upholstery shop, located in the 17000 block of Broadway Avenue, City of Gardena. During the search of the location, an LAPD K-9 indicated the presence of narcotics.  A search of the location yielded a semi-automatic firearm, fentanyl, methamphetamine, cutting agents, packaging material and heroin.

In total, investigators seized approximately 15 kilograms (33 pounds) of black tar heroin, one-kilogram (2.2 pounds) of fentanyl, one pound of methamphetamine, counterfeit M30 (fentanyl) pills, six weapons, and several thousand dollars in suspected drug proceeds.  In addition, investigators seized two vehicles used during the commission of a crime. Hector Valle and Efren Sanchez were transported and booked into the Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility for various narcotic and firearm related charges. Both Valle and Sanchez were released on bail pending future court proceedings.  The street value of the seized narcotics is estimated at an excess of $1.5 million dollars.

Nature of Incident: Major Heroin Seizure

Report Number: 23-76619

Location: 2200 block of Cota Avenue, Long Beach CA

100 block of 69th Street, Long Beach CA

17000 block of Broadway Avenue, Gardena CA

Date & Time: 6/19/2023 @ 9:20 AM

Unit(s) Responsible: Ventura County Combined Agency Team (VCAT)

Ventura County Fentanyl & Overdose Crimes Unit (VCFOCUS)

Oxnard Police Department Narcotics Unit

Thousand Oaks Directed Enforcement Unit

Detention Services Classification Unit

Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime.  The caller may remain anonymous.  The call is not recorded.  Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).

Source & photo: Ventura County Sheriff's Office