Meth bust nets key suspect
By Donna Littlejohn, Staff Writer
Article Launched: 07/04/2008 11:19:47 PM PDT


A man suspected of being the lead supplier of methamphetamine to the South Bay was arrested this week, capping a monthslong investigation, Torrance police said Friday.

Police seized $20,000 in the operation, and seven others were also arrested following further investigation.

Julio Cesar Angel, 23, of Wilmington was arrested about 11:30 a.m. Thursday for alleged possession of methamphetamine for sale. Also arrested was his girlfriend, Norma Garcia Gonzalez, 20.

The couple rented a house on Neptune Avenue near Pacific Coast Highway. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials also believe the pair are in the United States illegally. They are being held in Torrance jail without bail. Arraignment is expected on Monday.

Torrance Police Lt. Steve D'anjou said the ongoing investigation by the Community Lead Officer Detail had been zeroing in on Angel for several months, believing he is one of only a few major drug dealers in the South Bay.

After Thursday's arrest, police set up a sting operation using an undercover officer who began answering Angel's telephone calls and setting up appointments to meet with prospective buyers police believed intended to sell drugs to still others in the community.

Police said the undercover officer arranged to meet the callers, who believed they were dealing with Angel or his representative, at a parking lot in the 1400 block of Pacific Coast Highway, where seven more arrests were made.

Altogether, police seized $20,000 in cash and more than 3 ounces of high-quality methamphetamine. D'anjou said efforts to arrest other narcotics dealers continue.

Also arrested were:

Nicholas Loren Portune, 24, of Torrance, for possession of methamphetamine for sale.

Ryan Shaw, 27, of Redondo Beach, arrested on an outstanding warrant.

Roberto Garcia Lazo, 24, of San Pedro, arrested for alleged possession of methamphetamine for sales.

Nicole Marie Zesa, 19, of San Pedro, arrested for allegedly being under the influence of narcotics.

Rueben Anthony Canava, 36, of Torrance, accused of possession of methamphetamine.

David Martinez, 23, of Encino, for alleged possession of methamphetamine for sale and transportation of methamphetamines.

Lillie Hollister Feil, 21, of Manhattan Beach, for allegedly being under the influence of narcotics.

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