El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office officials say long-term efforts to dismantle cartel-supplied gangs have now resulted in 21 arrests and major seizures, marking a milestone in the county’s fight against organized crime.
The campaign, which stretches into the Tahoe bi-state region, has been led by the Sheriff’s Office in coordination with the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office, South Lake Tahoe Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Alpine County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI. Authorities confirmed this week that two more fugitives have been captured, adding to the tally. The initiative, part of the broader campaign known as Operation Summer Heat, has also earned national attention, including mention in a Homeland Intelligence Brief sent to senior policymakers in Washington, D.C.
Sheriff’s officials said the coordinated enforcement surge is aimed at protecting families from cartel-driven violence and drug trafficking. It comes just days after the conclusion of Operation Folsom Blues 3.0, another countywide sweep, underscoring El Dorado County’s aggressive stance in fighting organized crime.
Operation Summer Heat was launched in response to growing concerns from residents about gang activity, including drug dealing near schools and attempts to recruit students into cartel-backed networks. Investigators said these groups profit off addiction and violence, exploiting vulnerable communities.
“El Dorado County will not be a haven for cartel-supplied organizations,” District Attorney Vern Pierson said in a statement. “Operations like this show what happens when local law enforcement, state agencies, and our federal partners work side by side. Cartel gun runners and drug traffickers will find no refuge in El Dorado County. Those who suggest otherwise are irresponsible.”
Sheriff Jeff Leikauf credited the interagency partnerships that have fueled the operation’s success. “The staff of the Sheriff’s Office remains committed to the safety of the citizens of El Dorado County,” Leikauf said. “We greatly appreciate the working relationships between the local, state and federal law enforcement agencies who are committed to the same goal of apprehending those who wish to commit crimes in our communities. I also want to personally thank District Attorney Vern Pierson and the members of the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office who are committed to holding the criminal element accountable.”
Sid Patel, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Sacramento Field Office, emphasized that cartel-backed gangs represent a threat beyond local boundaries. “Cartel-backed gangs threaten safety in every community they touch. By striking these groups head-on with our state and local partners, we cut off their reach, defend our communities, and advance our mission to keep the homeland safe.”
The two most recent arrests highlight the operation’s multi-state reach. In Nevada, members of the FBI’s Northern Nevada Safe Streets Task Force located and arrested Tyler Tofanelli on an El Dorado County felony warrant for dissuading a witness by force or threat. Authorities said the case involved a citizen who courageously stepped forward to protect children and families from gang-related crimes.
In Montana, law enforcement captured 30-year-old Christopher Charles Flammer, wanted in El Dorado County on charges of possessing cocaine for sale. Officials said Flammer attempted to flee across the Canadian border but was intercepted and will be returned to face prosecution.
“These arrests send a clear message: fugitives who commit crimes in El Dorado County will be held accountable—no matter where they run,” Pierson’s office stated.
Sheriff’s officials continue to seek the public’s help in locating another suspect. Cole Alexander Williams, 31, is wanted on a felony warrant for cocaine sales and may be hiding in Tehachapi, California. Anyone with information is urged to contact law enforcement.
Since its launch, the effort has resulted in the recovery of a trove of cartel-linked assets. Authorities report the seizures include 20 firearms, among them ghost guns, extended magazines, and weapons with obliterated serial numbers; roughly $84,000 in cash; seven pounds of cocaine; four pounds of methamphetamine; ounce quantities of fentanyl, including counterfeit M30 pills; prescription drugs such as oxycodone and Xanax diverted from legal channels; and three stolen vehicles, all recovered within 24 hours of being reported.
Sheriff Leikauf emphasized that the effort is far from over and reiterated his thanks to partner agencies and the public. “The staff of the Sheriff’s Office remains committed to the safety of the citizens of El Dorado County. We greatly appreciate the working relationships between the local, state and federal law enforcement agencies who are committed to the same goal of apprehending those who wish to commit crimes in our communities. I also want to personally thank District Attorney Vern Pierson and the members of the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office who are committed to holding the criminal element accountable.”
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