Federal authorities arrested 24 people in Milwaukee on charges of drug trafficking and operating an illegal gambling ring. According to United States Attorney James L. Santelle, the defendants are charged with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances, operating an illegal gambling business, and interstate travel in aid of a racketeering enterprise. Santelle said a year-long investigation culminated Tuesday with more than 150 law enforcement officers executing search warrants and arresting 24 people in the Milwaukee area. The investigation discovered more than 1,000 kilograms of marijuana being sent by courier from Seattle and British Columbia to the Midwest. The couriers were used to take gambling proceeds back to Seattle, Santelle said. According to Santelle, the defendants managed a sophisticated sports betting operation that generated tens of thousands of dollars each week. Officials seized about $1.3 million in cash, 25 pounds of marijuana, drug and gambling ledgers, two firearms, and jewelry worth more than $250,000. If you are facing drug conspiracy charges, please contact the Milwaukee Drug Trafficking Lawyers of Kohler & Hart, LLP, by calling 888-565-7597.