A local money service business owner was apprehended this week, facing severe federal accusations tied to laundering activities involving drug cartels. Investigators arrested Brenda Lili Berrera Orantes, a 39-year-old Guatemalan national, at her three La Popular stores located across Oregon and Washington. The allegations claim she funneled over $18 million to drug trafficking organizations in Mexico and Honduras. Her arrest has led to the temporary closure of her businesses, leaving customers surprised and concerned.
Between 2021 and 2024, according to federal investigators, Berrera Orantes allegedly accepted cash from illegal drug transactions and transferred significant sums under fictitious names, charging an additional 10% fee per transaction. This scheme reportedly involved substantial illicit funds moving through small businesses back to foreign locations. Community members, such as Ellie, noted suspicious activities like luxury vehicles frequenting the premises, raising doubts about the legitimacy of operations.
Katie de Villiers, Chief of the Asset Recovery and Money Laundering Division for the District of Oregon, emphasized the critical role these businesses play in facilitating drug-related financial crimes within communities. The investigation aims to hold accountable those profiting from aiding criminal organizations.
Berrera Orantes appeared in federal court on Thursday before a U.S. Magistrate Judge, who ordered her detention until further legal proceedings. If found guilty, she faces up to two decades in federal prison, five years of supervised release, and potential fines reaching half a million dollars or double the laundered amount's value.
Community reactions reflect relief that justice is being pursued while serving as a warning to others engaging in similar illegal activities. The case underscores efforts to dismantle networks supporting drug trafficking globally.