Richard S. Moultrie, Jr. Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia | U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia
Juan Perez-Maldonado and Francisco Garcia Gomez, both identified as illegal aliens from Mexico, appeared in federal court on June 4, 2025. They were arrested on charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Alongside them, Filemon Hernandez-Jijon faces charges of possession of a firearm by an alien unlawfully present in the United States.
U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg stated, “Our law enforcement partners worked swiftly to disrupt a suburban drug lab, seize numerous firearms, and arrest two illegal aliens allegedly responsible for manufacturing and distributing methamphetamine.” He emphasized that those involved in drug trafficking will be prosecuted.
Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division, remarked on the agency's commitment to safety: “DEA remains focused on keeping America safe and protecting the homeland from by removing dangerous drugs from our communities and bringing criminals to justice.”
The case details presented in court revealed that DEA agents observed Hernandez-Jijon supplying methamphetamine in Smyrna, Georgia. Subsequent investigations led agents to a mobile home in Marietta where they found Perez-Maldonado and Garcia Gomez along with an active meth lab.
Inside the mobile home were at least 13 kilograms of crystalized methamphetamine and two handguns. Outside were materials associated with drug production. Another search warrant executed at an apartment in Smyrna uncovered more firearms and identification linked to Perez-Maldonado.
Both Perez-Maldonado and Hernandez-Jijon had been previously deported from the United States. Hernandez-Jijon is currently a fugitive; authorities urge anyone with information about his whereabouts to contact local law enforcement.
The public is reminded that these are only charges; defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt at trial.
The investigation is being conducted by the DEA with assistance from local narcotics units and police departments. The prosecution team includes Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Schwarzl and Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebeca M. Ojeda.
This case falls under Operation Take Back America, which aims to combat illegal immigration and criminal organizations while safeguarding communities from violent crime.
For more information or inquiries regarding this case, contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office via email or phone provided above.
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