An 18 month long investigation lead to six arrests in Eau Claire relating to a large drug distribution ring.

According to a press release, Eau Claire law enforcement authorities and the West Central Drug Task Force conducted an extensive 18 month long investigation into the large scale distribution network. The investigation led to the arrest of six people; Hector A. Jimenez-Sosa, Mario R. Aviles, Pedro A. Delarosa-Munoz, Olaguer J. Renter, Elena Sosa Ochoa, and Terrence J. Krall.

Authorities reportedly seized approximately $250,000 of drugs over the course of the investigation, including fentanyl, methamphetamine and other dangerous drugs. Jimenez-Sosa allegedly operated the distribution network out of Eau Claire, and used the United States Postal Service to ship drugs throughout the region.

Officials say the bust was one of the largest fentanyl distribution networks ever investigated in the western Wisconsin region.

According to Eau Claire authorities, the investigation was conducted with the help of a confidential informant who wore wires to record alleged fentanyl, methamphetamine and marijuana purchases from Jimenez-Sosa and his relatives.

The distribution ring was reportedly first discovered when the USPS identified packages containing illegal drugs heading to Eau Claire at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. The packages allegedly contained as much as 1,000 grams of methamphetamine. Authorities also say the fentanyl allegedly sold by the group resulted in at least one overdose death in the region.

Authorities did not say where exactly in Eau Claire the investigation was conducted. Jimenez-Sosa and Aviles are also facing federal charges relating to the illegal drug delivery.