San Joaquin County District Attorney Announces Arraignment in Major Fentanyl Trafficking Case

San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas, announces the arraignment of Francisco Eduardo Sandoval-Baez, who was arrested on February 25, 2025, following a traffic stop conducted by the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Department. During the stop, deputies discovered 8 kilograms of powdered fentanyl—enough to potentially kill up to 4 million people—concealed within the defendant’s vehicle. The traffic stop took place at Arch Rd and Highway 99.

The arrest occurred after Sandoval-Baez consented to a search of his vehicle, during which a narcotics detection canine alerted deputies to the presence of drugs. The subsequent search uncovered a substantial fentanyl stash. Sandoval-Baez, who does not possess a valid California or United States driver’s license, claimed he was traveling north on Highway 99, returning to Mexico after attending a party in the United States.

The defendant was arraigned in Department 8B of the San Joaquin County Superior Court. Bail has been provisionally set at $1 million pending further proceedings.

 District Attorney Ron Freitas issued the following statement:

“The seizure of 8 kilograms of fentanyl in this case represents a critical strike against the deadly tide of narcotics flooding our communities. This is enough poison to wipe out millions of lives, and we will not stand idly by while traffickers prey on the vulnerable. My office is committed to prosecuting this case with unrelenting resolve, ensuring that those who peddle death face the full weight of justice.”

The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office commends the diligence and professionalism of the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Department in intercepting this dangerous shipment.