A local money service business owner was apprehended this week, facing federal charges related to money laundering associated with drug cartels. On Wednesday, federal agents arrested 39-year-old Brenda Lili Berrera Orantes, a Guatamalan national, and conducted searches at her three La Popular stores located in Oregon and Washington. She stands accused of laundering over $18 million for drug trafficking organizations in Mexico and Honduras.
Barrera Orantes made her initial court appearance on Thursday before a U.S. Magistrate Judge, who ordered her to remain in custody pending additional court proceedings. If found guilty, she could face up to 20 years in federal prison, five years of supervised release, and a fine of $500,000 or twice the amount of money laundered.
As a result of her arrest, the La Popular locations in Beaverton, Hillsboro, and Vancouver have been shut down. On Friday, many customers were met with closed doors when they attempted to send money or cash checks, expressing shock upon learning of the arrest.
One local resident, Ellie, shared her surprise at the news, revealing her longstanding suspicions regarding the operations at these stores. Federal investigators allege that from 2021 to 2024, Berrera Orantes accepted cash from drug sales and executed large wire transfers using false identities, charging an additional 10% per transaction.
“This investigation has highlighted the crucial role that money service businesses play in laundering the substantial proceeds from illegal drug trafficking in our community,” stated Katie de Villiers, Chief of the Asset Recovery and Money Laundering Division for the District of Oregon. “The scale of illicit funds reportedly flowing through these small businesses back to Mexico and Honduras is staggering. We are committed to holding accountable those who profit by enabling drug trafficking organizations to launder their profits.”
