QUINCY — The Moses Lake Regional Tactical Response Team executed a search warrant at a residence on I Street in Quincy on Thursday, leading to the arrest of Jilberto Lucatero-Lora, a 20-year-old suspect alleged to be involved in the distribution of cocaine and marijuana to Sureño gang members. 

The operation, conducted with the collaboration of the Moses Lake and Quincy police departments, was part of an ongoing investigation into Lucatero-Lora’s alleged activities, according to a release from the Moses Lake Police Department. The warrant was secured through the efforts of a major crimes detective from the MLPD, with assistance from other local law enforcement. 

Moments after leaving his home, Lucatero-Lora was apprehended at a nearby business, the release said. Following the arrest, TRT members secured his residence, located at 408 I St., where a search was conducted.

Investigators encountered Vanessa Lora-Sanchez, the 43-year-old mother of Lucatero-Lora, who was subsequently taken into custody. The release said that Lora-Sanchez allegedly attempted to destroy evidence connected to her son's suspected drug operations. 

As part of the search, the East Wenatchee Police Department’s Narcotics Detection K-9 was deployed, uncovering multiple concealed stashes of cocaine. Law enforcement officials confiscated approximately two pounds of cocaine, five firearms and over $69,000 in U.S. currency. Additionally, a variety of marijuana products were seized during the operation. 

The release said Lucatero-Lora was in unlawful possession of the firearms.  

Both Lucatero-Lora and Lora-Sanchez face numerous charges, including possession of cocaine with intent to deliver and multiple counts of unlawful possession of a firearm. The release said that further charges may be forthcoming as the investigation continues. 

According to the Grant County Jail roster, Lucatero-Lora remains incarcerated on charges related to drug possession and firearm offenses, with no bail amount listed as of Friday. Lora-Sanchez, however, was released Thursday after being booked on charges including tampering with physical evidence and possession of narcotics. 

The Moses Lake Police Department expressed gratitude to the Quincy Police Department and the East Wenatchee Police Department for their assistance in this operation.