Two Suspects in Cartel-Linked Drug Case Arraigned in Dodge County

Mantorville, MN (KROC-AM News) - Two of the people arrested in connection with a major drug bust in the Rochester area this week were arraigned Friday in Dodge County Court, while the other three defendants were headed to federal court.

Dodge County officials say 21-year-old Heriberto Salazar and 22-year-old Alejandra Ochoa were charged with 1st degree drug sales and child endangerment. Authorities seized 19 pounds of methamphetamine in raids on two homes in Dodge and Mower Counties, and from three vehicles that were stopped near the Rochester Airport.

Bail for Salazar was set at $1.5 million dollars, while bail for Ochoa was set at $500,000 dollars.

Investigators have said the drug operation has ties to a well-known Mexican drug cartel.