FBG Casino landed in federal custody after authorities uncovered a large-scale fentanyl trafficking operation throughout a raid at a rental property in Forest Park, Georgia, on November 14.

The 41-year-old Atlanta native, born Rico Deville Buice, was arrested alongside David Estevan Montillo Diaz after federal brokers seized 21 kilograms of fentanyl, greater than $380,000 in suspected drug proceeds and a Glock 19 handgun from the residence. Investigators additionally discovered a cash counter and a meals sealer, pointing to a well-organized drug distribution setup.

Casino tried to flee by a aspect exit as regulation enforcement closed in, however was shortly detained with $4,000 in money in his pockets. Agents later discovered one other $80,000 inside a designer bag allegedly linked to the aspiring Hip-Hop artist.

The arrest marks a significant fall from grace for Casino, who as soon as stood beside his celebrity brother Future on the platinum-selling observe “Move That Dope” that includes Pharrell Williams and Pusha T. The track highlighted Casino’s lyrical presence and tied him carefully to the Freebandz label, the place he additionally labored behind the scenes as a CEO.

While he launched a number of mixtapes throughout his music profession, sources say Casino had stepped away from recording in recent times to concentrate on enterprise ventures. That pivot now seems to have veered into prison territory.

At a press briefing, U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg stated, “The collaborative effort of different law enforcement agencies united in the fight to eliminate transnational criminal organizations kept a staggering amount of deadly fentanyl from hitting our streets. The resulting charges send a strong message: fentanyl traffickers in our district may run, but they cannot hide. Instead, they will find themselves in federal custody, and their drugs and money seized.”

FBI Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown added, “The seizure of 21 kilograms of fentanyl and over $380,000 in drug proceeds is a direct hit to those who seek to poison our communities. The FBI, in partnership with our law enforcement colleagues, will relentlessly pursue these criminals and hold them accountable.”

The bust was a part of Operation Take Back America, a federal initiative focusing on transnational drug networks. Agencies concerned included the FBI Atlanta Field Office, the DEA Atlanta Division and the Clayton County Police Department.

Both Casino and Diaz appeared in federal courtroom on November 19. They face conspiracy prices to own with intent to distribute fentanyl, which carry a compulsory minimal sentence of 10 years and a most of life in jail.

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