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Joint narcotics investigation leads to arrest ofpreviously deported felon

Wednesday, July 23, 2025 at 2:00 PM

By Kathy Bottorff

On July 22, 2025, a joint narcotics investigation by the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office and the Indiana State Police led to the arrest of 41-year-old Julio Rangel Jimenez, an illegal immigrant previously deported earlier this year.

The arrest followed a traffic stop conducted near CR 350 E and CR 550 N. During the stop, K9 Agi from the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office alerted to the presence of narcotics. A subsequent search revealed Rangel Jimenez to be in possession of suspected cocaine.

Further investigation led narcotics officers to a residence where Rangel Jimenez had 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. He faces charges of Dealing in Cocaine (Level 2 Felony) and Possession of Cocaine (Level 3 Felony). Bond is currently set at $50,000, and a Department of Homeland Security detainer has been placed.  Records show that Rangel Jimenez was arrested on similar charges in February 2025 and was deported by DHS shortly thereafter.

Sheriff Travis W. Heishman issued the following statement:

“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. 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.”

This remains an active investigation.

Readers are reminded that charging information supported by an affidavit of probable cause is merely an allegation that a crime has been committed, and there is only probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed. They are presumed innocent throughout the proceedings, entitled to be represented by counsel, and entitled to a trial jury at which the State is obligated to provide proof beyond a reasonable doubt before a judgment of guilt may be made.

 

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