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Two Arrested in Columbus on Human, Drug Trafficking Charges
Suspects linked to Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación, police say
Jan. 28, 2026 at 12:07pm
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The Columbus Police Department and federal law enforcement agencies have arrested two men, Raul Reyes-Nepomuceno and Brandon Reyes-Escano, on charges of human trafficking for labor or sexual servitude, drug trafficking, pimping, and keeping a place of prostitution. The investigation involved a traffic stop, search warrants, and the seizure of evidence linking the suspects to criminal activity.
Why it matters
This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to disrupt organized criminal activity that exploits vulnerable individuals and threatens public safety. The alleged affiliations with the Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación also raise concerns about the reach of transnational criminal organizations.
The details
According to the police, the investigation was a partnership between the Columbus Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The investigation led to a traffic stop on January 22, where Reyes-Nepomuceno was identified as the driver, and two search warrants on Lacey Oak Court and Clay Drive. Evidence recovered from the residences included over 100 condoms, a ledger, lubricant, drugs, a Mexican passport, and a box of lingerie, linking the locations to human trafficking and drug trafficking activity.
- The traffic stop occurred around 7:41 p.m. on January 22.
- The search warrants were conducted on an unspecified date.
The players
Raul Reyes-Nepomuceno
A 53-year-old man arrested on charges of trafficking of persons for labor or sexual servitude, trafficking methamphetamine, pimping, and keeping a place of prostitution. He was found to be unlawfully present in the United States.
Brandon Reyes-Escano
A 23-year-old man arrested on charges of trafficking of persons for labor or sexual servitude, trafficking methamphetamine, pimping, and keeping a place of prostitution.
Columbus Police Department (CPD)
The local law enforcement agency that partnered with federal agencies in the investigation.
Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
The federal agency that led the operation, with assistance from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación
The criminal organization that the suspects were allegedly affiliated with, according to the police.
What’s next
The suspects are scheduled to appear in Recorder's Court at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday. The investigation remains ongoing.
The takeaway
This case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat human trafficking and drug trafficking, particularly when organized criminal groups are involved. It highlights the importance of collaboration between local and federal agencies to disrupt these illicit activities and protect vulnerable individuals.
