Major Arrests in Los Angeles for Dark Web Drug Distribution
Overview of the Arrests
On Wednesday, four men from Los Angeles County were taken into custody for allegedly running one of the largest drug distribution networks on the dark web. This operation was unveiled by the U.S. Department of Justice, highlighting the increasing challenge law enforcement faces in regulating online drug trafficking.
Details of the Operation
Federal prosecutors have accused the individuals of managing ten virtual storefronts across 17 different dark web marketplaces from September 2018 to February. These marketplaces featured names such as JoyInc, LaFarmacia, and WhiteDoc, which were reportedly significant players in the illegal drug trade.
Profiles of the Suspects
The accused include three 35-year-old men hailing from Glendale and a 43-year-old resident of Sherman Oaks. They were indicted on April 1 and face allegations of engaging in 116 overt acts to promote their alleged drug trafficking conspiracy. The names of the suspects are Davit Avalyan, Hrant Gevorgyan, Hayk Grigoryan, and Gurgen Nersesyan.
Legal Proceedings
Upon their arrest, each man pleaded not guilty to the charges. If they are convicted, they could face severe penalties, potentially including life in prison. Such sentences are indicative of the serious nature of the offenses attributed to them.
Evidence and Drug Seizures
As part of the investigation, federal agents executed multiple search warrants, uncovering substantial quantities of cash and suspected drugs. However, the Justice Department has chosen not to disclose further details regarding these materials, as they remain under seal.
Types of Drugs Distributed
The indictment alleges that the men facilitated the sale of various substances, including cocaine, methamphetamine, MDMA (more commonly known as ecstasy), and ketamine. Transactions were primarily conducted using cryptocurrency, and the drugs were reportedly shipped through the U.S. Postal Service, demonstrating a sophisticated operation that leveraged digital tools to evade traditional law enforcement methods.
Notable Marketplaces
Among the stores linked to the suspects, the JoyInc marketplace has been described as one of the most prolific suppliers of methamphetamine and cocaine ever to function on the dark web. A screenshot provided by the DOJ shows that JoyInc offered cocaine in bulk quantities on a site known as Drughub. In its advertising, JoyInc even claimed to sell MDMA “straight from EUROPE” alongside ketamine priced at $435.
Federal Response
These arrests are part of a larger initiative by federal authorities aimed at combating the rise of illicit vendors on the dark web. The Justice Department emphasized the seriousness of this issue, pointing to the alarming prevalence of harmful substances being made available to thousands across the United States through these online platforms.
The actions taken by law enforcement indicate a concerted effort to dismantle significant drug trafficking operations that leverage technology to undermine public safety. The unfolding events will be closely monitored as the case proceeds through the court system, potentially serving as a landmark moment in dark web drug enforcement.
