3 Arrested for Alleged Meth Conversion Lab in Atlanta Backyard

Undocumented immigrants from Mexico accused of operating illicit drug operation near families and children

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Three undocumented immigrants from Mexico have been arrested for allegedly running a methamphetamine conversion lab in the backyard of an Atlanta home. The suspects, Sergio Cortes-Nieto, Jose Angel Cortes Raquel, and Christian Martinez Larumbe Dominguez, face charges of possession with intent to distribute meth. Authorities discovered over 100 pounds of liquid meth mixed with concrete and 50 liters of liquid meth solution during a search of the property.

Why it matters

The discovery of this alleged meth lab in a residential backyard raises serious concerns about public safety and the reach of drug cartels into local communities. It also highlights the ongoing challenge of combating the production and distribution of highly addictive and dangerous drugs like methamphetamine.

The details

According to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia, the three suspects were operating the alleged meth conversion lab under a tent in the backyard of a home in the 1900 block of Mannville Drive in Atlanta. The home has an Atlanta address but is within the city limits of Brookhaven. During the search, authorities found the large quantities of liquid meth mixed with concrete and meth solution.

  • On February 20, 2026, DEA agents searched the home and discovered the alleged meth lab.
  • In August 2024, suspect Jose Angel Cortes Raquel was allegedly involved in the delivery of 2,370 pounds of meth hidden in boxes of celery at the Atlanta State Farmers Market in Forest Park.

The players

Sergio Cortes-Nieto

A 53-year-old undocumented immigrant from Mexico who was arrested in connection with the alleged meth conversion lab.

Jose Angel Cortes Raquel

A 39-year-old undocumented immigrant from Mexico who was arrested at the scene of the alleged meth lab. He was also previously charged in 2024 for his alleged involvement in a large meth trafficking operation.

Christian Martinez Larumbe Dominguez

A 31-year-old undocumented immigrant from Mexico who was arrested at the scene of the alleged meth lab.

Jae W. Chung

Special agent in charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division.

Theodore S. Hertzberg

U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia.

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What they’re saying

“This lab was operating in a backyard, in close proximity to families and children. That level of disregard for human life is unacceptable. Our priority remains protecting the public from the devastating impact of illegal drug manufacturing.”

— Jae W. Chung, Special agent in charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division

“To ensure that the cartels never secure a foothold in North Georgia, even as they try to embed themselves in our neighborhoods, we will continue to aggressively prosecute the criminals responsible for manufacturing and distributing this poison.”

— Theodore S. Hertzberg, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Jose Angel Cortes Raquel out on bail, given his previous charges related to a large meth trafficking operation.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing battle against drug cartels and the production of highly addictive and dangerous drugs like methamphetamine, even in residential neighborhoods. It underscores the need for continued vigilance and aggressive prosecution to prevent these illicit operations from taking root in local communities.