Man pleads guilty to dealing in heroin

SALT LAKE CITY — A man accused of being involved in a drug trafficking ring pleaded guilty in federal court Tuesday to heroin dealing.

Martin Mayorga, 38, was named in an eight-count indictment in the selling of cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine. The operation involved 13 others and was largely based in Salt Lake County, but was also beginning to move into parts of Utah County. From the beginning, federal prosecutors identified Mayorga as one of the major players in the network.

Mayorga pleaded guilty to possession and distribution of heroin. Prosecutors say he sold at least 250 grams of heroin between March 25 and May 21. He faces a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison and $2 million in fines.

The indictments followed a 16-month investigation. Investigators say members of the network distributed drugs through various commercial businesses. Initially, the investigation targeted mid-level dealers. "Law enforcement agencies then worked their way up through distribution lines to higher drug distributors and associates," said U.S. Attorney for Utah Brett Tolman.

Reshard Benard, 31, and Gessiel Sanchez, 25, both of Salt Lake City, and Jose Soto-Tula, 25, of West Valley City, were indicted on counts of drug distribution, conspiracy/manufacturing of crack cocaine and possession of a firearm by a restricted person.

Salvador Abraham Jaimes, 28, pleaded guilty to possession and distribution of cocaine in September and is awaiting sentencing.

— Emiley Morgan