2 arrested in dark-web drug operation that sold fentanyl to Miami agents as ‘HotGirlzClub'

Federal investigators say two people are behind a drug operation on the dark-web that shipped hundreds of packages across the country—including into the hands of undercover agents in South Florida.

Nicholas Aguilar and Jessica Marcolina are accused of selling drugs as a vendor on the dark-web called “HotGirlzClub” and laundering the proceeds through cryptocurrency from about September 2020 through June 2026.

During the investigation, undercover agents in Miami bought drugs advertised as heroin, but testing found more than 14 grams of fentanyl. The drugs, along with 5.8 grams of methamphetamine, were transported in packages that contained clear, heat-sealed plastic bags “concealed among miscellaneous household items.”

Investigators say they identified more than 500 suspicious shipments linked to the sender’s address, and were able to identify the subjects after reviewing surveillance footage from the post offices, fake IDs, the cryptocurrency transactions and payout accounts.

Eventually, investigators were led to Marcolina and Aguilar’s residences in Los Angeles. Both were present when authorities searched Marcolina’s home and found “distribution quantities of suspected controlled substances, drug packaging materials (including heat sealed and black mylar bags), printed warning labels, USPS packaging materials, label maker, heat sealer, vacuum sealer, food processor with suspected narcotics residue” and more.

At Aguilar’s home, authorities reportedly found drugs, documents about the dark web, and around 10 fake IDs.

“In a shed in the backyard, agents also found a gun manufacturing system which was creating ghost guns, suppressors, and uppers/lowers,” the criminal complaint reads.

Aguilar and Marcolina are charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and conspiracy to commit money laundering.