Watch CBS News

20 People Charged In Twin Cities-Based Meth Ring

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Prosecutors have charged 20 people in connection with a methamphetamine ring that was based in the Twin Cities.

Gallery: Meth Bust Press Conference

The Hennepin County attorney's office says the nearly eight-month investigation started when an informant went to St. Paul police about meth sales.

The FBI became involved through its Safe Streets Task Force.

Officials used a wiretap to track the movement of the suspects. Authorities recovered nearly 17 pounds of meth with a street value of over half-a-million dollars.

Officials say some of the suspects had connections to the La Familia Michoacana Mexican drug cartel.

Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman says authorities believe the meth was produced in Mexico and came to Minnesota through the West Coast.

St. Paul Police Chief Tom Smith says suspects targeted the Hmong community.

(© Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.