ROCHESTER, Ind. (WISH) — A 41-year-old illegal immigrant was arrested Tuesday after a traffic stop led to a joint narcotics investigation by the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office and Indiana State Police.

On Tuesday, a traffic stop was conducted near County Road 350 East and County Round 550 North. During the stop, K-9 Agi from the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office alerted to the presence of narcotics. A subsequent search revealed Julio Rangel Jimenez, 41, to be possession of suspected cocaine.

Further investigation led narcotics officers to a residence where Rangel Jimenez has been residing. A search of the property resulted in the discovery of additional suspected cocaine, drug paraphernalia, three firearms, and $10,900 in U.S. currency.

Rangel Jimenez was taken into custody and booked into the Fulton County Jail, where he is facing preliminary charges of dealing in cocaine and possession of cocaine. Bond is set at $50,000, and a Department of Homeland (DHS) security detainer has been placed. Records show that Rangel Jimenez was arrested on similar charged in February 2025, and he was deported by DHS shortly after.

“This case is a testament to the exceptional teamwork between our deputies, K9 units, and our partners at the Indiana State Police and Department of Homeland Security,” said Fulton County Sheriff Travis Heishman. “I want to personally thank all of the officers and agents involved for their continued commitment to keeping our communities safe. Their professionalism and dedication are what make operations like this successful.”

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