A view of the Mescalero Apache Reservation in New Mexico. Photo from Vimari R / TripAdvisor

Federal and tribal authorities announced charges against 34 people in connection with a methamphetamine trafficking ring on and near the Mescalero Apache Reservation in southern New Mexico.

Lorenzo Saenz, a tribal member, controlled the ring, the U.S. Attorney's Office said. The 51-year-old was charged with conspiracy and distribution of methamphetamine after an investigation that lasted 18 months.

"Many of our young people are being poisoned by methamphetamine and lives are being shattered by senseless drug-related injuries and deaths," President Danny Breuninger said in a press release. "As the leader of my Tribe, it is my job to do all I can to preserve the safety and welfare of our people and to preserve our culture, traditions and customs."

In total, 18 people were charged in federal court. Of those, five are Mescalero Apache tribal members.

Another 16 people are charged in tribal court. All are tribal members.

“Methamphetamine has a disproportionate devastating impact on tribal communities, accounting for up to 40% of violent crime on reservations,” said U.S. Attorney Damon P. Martinez. “This investigation is an example of the Justice Department’s commitment to working with tribal governments to improve the safety of Native communities and increase awareness of the dangers of methamphetamine use.”

Get the Story:
DEA, BIA bust meth ring in Mescalero Apache country (The Albuquerque Journal 12/14)
34 arrested in connection with meth trafficking on Mescalero Apache Reservation and sourthern NM (KVIA 12/14)
Arrests made in meth trafficking investigation on Mescalero Apache reservation (KFOX 12/14)