Sonoma Sheriff Seizes 500 Pounds of Methamphetamine in Major San Jose Bust, Two Arrested

San Jose, CA – Sonoma County Sheriff's deputies have seized over 500 pounds of methamphetamine in San Jose, arresting two individuals following a 10-month investigation into a significant drug trafficking organization. The bust, described as the largest ever for the department's narcotics unit and one of the biggest in Northern California in recent years, also yielded $4,000 in cash and a loaded firearm. The operation culminated on Saturday, September 6, 2025, with a search warrant executed at a residence on Seven Trees Boulevard.

The Sonoma County Sheriff's Office confirmed the details, with reporter Henry K. Lee noting via social media, "> Drug investigation leads to car stop in San Jose in which suspect escapes on foot, but 2 others arrested & raid of home yields 500 lbs of meth, $4K & loaded gun, per @sonomasheriff." This massive seizure is believed to have a wholesale value of up to $1 million and a street value exceeding $10 million.

During the raid, deputies arrested Jose Cortez Morales, 40, also known as Jose Ortiz-Rivera, and Adela Lamas-Quintero, 47. Both suspects were booked into Sonoma County Jail with bail set at $500,000 each. They face charges including possession and transportation of a controlled substance for sale, possessing narcotics while armed, and conspiracy.

The investigation, which began in November 2024 after the re-establishment of the narcotics unit, focused on a drug trafficking organization moving drugs into Sonoma County. While two suspects were apprehended at the residence, a third individual, the driver of a vehicle linked to the case, escaped on foot after a short chase and crash. Despite assistance from San Jose police, the driver's identity is still being confirmed, and the search for them is ongoing.

Sgt. Juan Valencia of the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office stated that the seized methamphetamine was likely destined for distribution throughout the region. The successful operation underscores the department's renewed efforts to combat illicit drug activity and ensure public safety across Northern California.