News Summary
Rhode Island law enforcement made significant drug-related arrests, including individuals charged with distributing methamphetamine and counterfeit pills. Key figures include Star Sirikhom and the Ureña-Jimenez brothers, with ongoing investigations aimed at combating drug trafficking in the state. Authorities seize substantial quantities of drugs and cash, highlighting the growing issue of substance abuse and trafficking in Rhode Island.
Rhode Island law enforcement officials executed a series of significant drug busts that resulted in multiple arrests and guilty pleas, highlighting ongoing issues with drug trafficking in the state. Among those charged are individuals involved in the distribution of methamphetamine and counterfeit prescription pills.
One of the critical cases involved Star Sirikhom, a 38-year-old man who pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Sirikhom is scheduled for sentencing on November 19, 2025. His arrest is part of a larger federal investigation targeting a Colombia-based money laundering organization linked to drug trafficking activities. Sirikhom was previously indicted in July 2022 after being caught in June 2021 with over six kilograms of methamphetamine found in a black backpack during a traffic stop.
In a related incident, authorities apprehended Americo Ureña-Jimenez and Fausto Ureña-Jimenez, both of whom were charged after being found with nearly six pounds of methamphetamine concealed under the hood of their vehicle. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) had monitored the Ureña-Jimenez brothers for several months, following tips from a confidential informant who had purchased meth from them previously. The brothers drove from New York to Providence to deliver the drugs. During their arrest, they attempted to escape but were prevented from fleeing by law enforcement. The authorities seized 2,721 grams of methamphetamine from a hidden compartment in their vehicle. If convicted, both men face a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, along with potential fines of up to $10 million.
Another significant arrest was that of Anthony Stevens, 37, who was implicated in the trafficking of counterfeit Adderall pills laced with methamphetamine. Stevens was found with 30,226 counterfeit pills in a vehicle, and additional meth was discovered at a stash house, alongside $3,360 in cash. He is scheduled to face sentencing on October 30.
Julio Rivera, 34, was also arrested for possession with intent to manufacture cocaine, fentanyl, and methamphetamine after authorities executed a search warrant at his residence. Rivera was found in possession of 117 grams of cocaine, 91 grams of methamphetamine, 20 grams of fentanyl, and testosterone, along with various drug paraphernalia. He was identified as a bail violator and is currently being held without bail.
The series of arrests underscores a growing concern regarding drug trafficking and distribution in Rhode Island. The DEA has intensified efforts to combat this issue, focusing on individuals and organizations involved in drug distribution networks. The ongoing investigations are crucial in deterring drug-related crime in the area and addressing public safety concerns.
As these cases progress through the judicial system, authorities aim to dismantle the networks facilitating these illegal activities and reducing the availability of dangerous substances in the community. The sentencing outcomes for those involved in these incidents may set important precedents in addressing drug trafficking in Rhode Island.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- GoLocalProv: RI Man Pleads Guilty
- Turnto10: Federal Agents Seize Meth
- Patch: Cranston Man Trafficked Meth
- Patch: Coventry Man Caught with Drugs
- Google Search: Drug Trafficking Rhode Island
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
