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Postal Inspectors target drug trafficker

By Som Lisaius - email

This isn't the kind of suspect we usually profile, but he's one who's been on the run now for over a month.  Authorities say he's trying to move drugs and launder money. And he's doing so, they say, using the United States Postal Service. 

"We can say he's believed to be laundering drug proceeds.  We need to get him and people like him off the street."

United States Postal Inspector Tim Weisend is talking about this guy, 29 year old Jaime Jose Cazares.  On March 4th this year, authorities had reason to believe he was moving drugs.  And when he stopped at the main Post Office on Cherrybell, they seized his rental vehicle and found some incriminating evidence inside.

Says Inspector Weisend, "During the course of our investigation it was found that Mr. Cazares was in possession of approximately 262 grams of crack cocaine, pre-packaged for sale."

But due to a technicality that prevented authorities from searching the vehicle right away, Cazares was questioned and let go.  Shortly thereafter, they found the drugs inside. Cazares--who also goes by the name James Cebreros--has been running from the law ever since.

Authorities say this guy is especially dangerous due to known ties to a gang on the Southside. That's where he's been spotted recently and authorities believe that's where he's likely laying low today.

Cazares is 5-8, 130 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. And because he knows he's wanted, authorities say there's a good chance Cazares won't go down without a fight.

"We recommend that you do not contact this person directly, call 911 or 88 Crime," Inspector Weisend says.  "It's only a matter of time until he gets caught and hopefully this broadcast will help facilitate that."

If you have any information, contact 911 or 88 Crime, the Pima County Attorney's anonymous tip line.  Because this is a federal drug case, the postal service is offering a reward up to 50 thousand dollars for information leading to an arrest. Again, you can remain anonymous. It isn't who you are, it's what you know that could help solve this case.