35 arrested after multiple drug busts across Maine, New Hampshire border. In July of 2018, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the creation of S.O.S., which is being implemented in the District of New Hampshire and nine other federal districts. HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY Deputies busted their 59th grow house of the year when theyRead More Pinellas Sheriff Charges Three in Drug Trafficking Case They were The suspected drug traffickers have been arrested and accused of targeting Tampa Bay and Central Florida. ", Tampa Bay Florida's #1 Hit Music Channel and home of The joe Show. The Hillsborough County Anti-Drug Alliance website includes a list of programs available in our area. It could result in future settlements, according to a memorandum to commissioners. 47 indicted in hefty Capital Region drug bust led Top Stories / Jun 24, 2021 / 04:38 PM EDT. Some of the arrests were made for non-drug related offenses, such as probation and bail violations. Get notified on your phone in the morning with the latest forecast and news to start your day. Sheriff Chronister said during Monday's announcement, by continuing to conduct undercover operations targeting Johns, his hope is that both residents and visitors of Hillsborough County the week of the big game, including those traveling specifically to engage in human trafficking, will learn in advance that Hillsborough County has a zero-tolerance for such activity. 100 bags Download it here. 273 grams of crack cocaine. Like any major sporting event, the Super Bowl should not be a venue where these types of crimes occur on the sidelines, whether it's before, during, or after the game,said Sheriff Chronister. Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force. We will find you, and you will be arrested. The Capital District Reptile Expo returns! Rain likely. Should I tell my neighbors to stop skinny dipping? Two deputies were found dead inside a vacation rental home Saturday night. The deputies were members of the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office, who said the two were romantically involved with one another. 601 E. Kennedy Blvd. Snelling shared data with ABC Action News that shows, in the past few years, the spike in overdose deaths in Hillsborough County now exceeds the annual count of traffic fatalities, homicides, and suicides. The way the world is right now that one pill if it is not from your doctor prescription from your pharmacy youre taking a huge chance with your life," she added. Making sure that victims of federal crimes are treated with compassion, fairness and respect. Investigators found the man they believe to be his supplier, Beau Strawder, 46, who stayed at the Clarion Hotel on East Adamo Drive in Tampa, police said. Deputies found significant amounts of heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine and other drugs, along with firearms and more than $30,000 in cash inside the hotel rooms, said police. Eric Paul, 29, charged with trafficking of methamphetamine. The exact amount of the payout isnt yet known, but the countys outside legal team estimated Hillsborough could net $50 million to $60 million, according to formulas established for computing damages. Indictments were handed down last month and the arrests were made this week. 1998 - 2023 Nexstar Media Inc. | All Rights Reserved. The Public Affairs Office disseminates Seven other people were arrested on drug charges in connection with this case: To request removal of your name from an arrest report, submit these required items to arrestreports@patch.com. TAMPA, Fla. A Tampa man is in jail facing several drug-related charges after a joint investigation between the Tampa Police Department and Hillsborough County We will continue to go after people who choose to deal poison in our community. The 11 defendants each face federal charges ofconspiracy and drug distribution. Dawna Gantvoort, 45, charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, methamphetamine and controlled substance. Drugs, guns, and money seized. Motorcyclist Recovering After Crashing Into Clearwater Police Vehicle, Broadband Internet Coming To Rural Areas Of Hillsborough, Pasco County, Wimauma Infant's Death Ruled Homicide; Mother Charged With Murder, Salute To Scholars Scholarship Applications Open, AI Workshop: How Top-Producers and Non Techie Realtors Can Grow their Biz, 2-Year-Old Daughter Of Bucs Linebacker Shaquil Barrett Drowns Sunday, Bloomingdale-Riverview Area: 5 Freshest Homes For Sale, Gator Rescued In Philly, Manatee Center Breaks Ground: FL Good News. From December 7, 2020, through January 9, 2021, HCSO detectives worked undercover posting online ads offering to meet up and make themselves available to be purchased for sex. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts. Its devastating: Castro County estimates 18,000 Police seized fentanyl, meth, firearms, and more than $5,000. Snelling said fentanyl, a powerful opioid that often contaminates other drugs, was to blame in both cases. East Greenbush to begin enforcing lowered speed limits, Over 3k guns turned in during statewide gun buyback, 14 people hospitalized from collapsed roof, 05/01/2023: Exercise for your umbrellas and wipers. All of those things have to be addressed, Snelling concluded. 2022 is going to be my prediction, and I mean Im just praying and hoping that thats the year were going to start turning this around," she said. 47 indicted in hefty Capital Region drug bust led by Attorney General. Duringinclement weather, please check wmur closings/delays. Times staff. A month-long investigation by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office led investigators to a 28-year-old Riverview man who sold drugs from his home, authorities said in a press release. We know from past experiences with major sporting events that there will be some who travel for the exclusive purpose of taking advantage of women and children. Federal prosecutors indicted eleven people on drug trafficking charges. The Hillsborough County Anti-Drug Alliance website includes a list of programs available in our area. Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office Massive Human Trafficking Bust. Here's What Bloomingdale-Riverview Moms Really Want For Mother's Day! Authorities did not release much information because they said more arrests and indictments could be coming and they didnt want to compromise this case. "We are committed to protecting Hillsborough County. TAMPA, Fla. For Ellen Snelling, its still so surreal. Specifically, on eight separate occasions between October 22, 2019 and November 20, 2020, Manchester police detectives executed search warrants at the residence that resulted in the arrests of people renting rooms from Cicciu who were distributing and using heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine and crack cocaine. As a practicing pharmacist, Ive watched this epidemic play out first hand. The county used attorney Michael Moore, the former Mississippi attorney general, to file suit in 2018 against 14 companies, alleging drug manufacturers helped cause the addiction crisis and violated Floridas Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act by aggressively marketing opioid drugs, overplaying their benefits in treating chronic pain and downplaying their dangers. WebThe National Prescription Drug Take Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general Learn More. The purpose of this litigation is not to create some kind of windfall for government, said White. A total of 71 individuals were arrested during the course of the investigation dubbed Operation Interception, one of many proactive approaches the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office has taken to combat human trafficking leading up to the Super Bowl coming to Tampa in February 2021. Her brother died of a drug overdose in Miami. Specifically, on eight separate occasions between October 22, 2019 and November 20, 2020, Manchester police detectives executed search warrants at the residence that resulted in the arrests of people renting rooms from Cicciu who were distributing and using heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine and crack cocaine. Monitoring data trends helps assess increases or decreases and aids in targeted prevention opportunities for those most at risk. Renee Delgado-Razo, 29, possession of methamphetamine and firearm with an altered serial number. On one of these occasions, officers also located several assault-style weapons, a handgun, and brass knuckles. Notifications can be turned off anytime in the browser settings. Female detectives posed as prostitutes on the streets. This was the 59th grow house bust of the year, according to the Hillsborough Sheriffs Office. HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY Deputies busted their 59th grow house of the year when they Read More They were accused of trafficking in Fentanyl after a search warrant was executed at a St. Petersburg motel, the Pinellas Sheriffs Office said. In response, Hillsborough County adopted an ordinance to prohibit the possession, use, sale, distribution, production, or manufacture of synthetic drugs. "Their distribution of these deadly drugs heroin and fentanyl resulted in the overdose and deaths of one individual and serious bodily injury of another individual," said Michael Sinacore, Asst. By Dave Jordan Hillsborough County PUBLISHED 12:10 PM ET Sep. 03, 2020 TAMPA, Fla. Federal prosecutors have indcited 11 people on drug trafficking charges Letsgetstarted. You know, I know the devastation it causes to a family.. The heroin and fentanyl was trafficked throughout Tampa and Kissimmee, officials said. Board didnt say why. Thanks to the hard work of our law enforcement partners, he has now been held responsible for his crimes.. Philip Mathis, 25, charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. A total of 71Johns, or sex buyers, were arrested and charged with soliciting another to commit prostitution or entering/remaining in a place for prostitution. The massive bust was a collaboration between Carroll County, New Hampshire and Maine. Residents Additionally, the SAMHSA National Helpline for those seeking help is 1-800-662-4357. Get hyperlocal forecasts, radar and weather alerts. The one that is causing the most destruction and death is definitely fentanyl, and people are getting that in their drugs, and theyre not even aware of it.. RELATED: Portland man leads police on hour-long chase; now faces charges in connection with domestic violence incident, RELATED: Traffic stop leads to drug bust in Lewiston; man out on bail found with more than $2K in suspected drug proceeds, RELATED: Maine State Police confiscate almost 2 oz of cocaine from truck; driver arrested, RELATED: 3 people from Maine charged for meth; MDEA seizes $60k in drugs, RELATED: Two Maine men found passed out in running car charged with trafficking fentanyl, other drugs, Example video title will go here for this video. Dozens of people have been indicted in the bust of a major narcotic trafficking ring that operated on Long Island, including from out of two day care centers, Back in November, the CDC announced that drug overdose deaths across the nation topped 100,000 from April 2020 to April 2021, which is a record-breaking amount. WebIn response, Hillsborough County adopted an ordinance to prohibit the possession, use, sale, distribution, production, or manufacture of synthetic drugs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Rabuck assisted with the forfeiture portion of the case. On January 11, National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, Sheriff Chad Chronister announced the results of a month-long operation aimed at targeting and deterring human trafficking in Hillsborough County. Chance of rain 100%. TAMPA, Fla. Federal prosecutors have indcited 11 people on drug trafficking charges after a two-year investigation. All Rights Reserved. Complete this form to report the marketing, sale or manufacture of synthetic drugs. AIKEN COUNTY, S.C. (WRDW/WAGT) -- Thirteen people are under arrest in Warrenville after a drug bust Tuesday. Well deliver the latest news and information you need to know every weekday morning. "With less than a month until the big game,our covert operations continue,seeking those who choose to sexually exploit others here in our community,said Sheriff Chad Chronister. Police arrested Strawder on charges of armed drug trafficking, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a controlled substance and felon in possession of a firearm. The dollars, to be paid out over 18 years, come from a $26 billion settlement announced last month to end litigation from state and local governments against Johnson & Johnson and three drug distributors Cardinal Health, AmerisourceBergen and McKesson. is to combat the large number of overdoses and deaths associated with fentanyl and other synthetic opioids. This is the result of a twi-year investigation. In New Hampshire, the U.S. Attorneys Office is focusing its efforts on prosecuting synthetic opioid trafficking cases arising in Hillsborough County, which includes Manchester and Nashua. Hillsborough State Attorney Andrew Warren announced in a news conference Thursday the creation of a program designed to expand the rehabilitative options available to low-level drug offenders. No company should ever place its desire for profits above the health and well-being of its customers or the communities where those customers live, the county lawsuit stated. TAMPA Hillsborough County for decades has offered treatment in lieu of jail or prison for some defendants accused of minor drug When consumed, these drugs mimic the effects of controlled substances and are often manufactured to appear similar to illicit drugs. Bruins' season ends in Game 7 loss to Panthers, Maine veterans experience hero's welcome after first Honor Flight trip of the year, Many Maine towns see inches of rain during strong spring storm, Many Maine towns see inches of rain during spring storm, Portland man leads police on hour-long chase; now faces charges in connection with domestic violence incident, Traffic stop leads to drug bust in Lewiston; man out on bail found with more than $2K in suspected drug proceeds, Maine State Police confiscate almost 2 oz of cocaine from truck; driver arrested, 3 people from Maine charged for meth; MDEA seizes $60k in drugs, Two Maine men found passed out in running car charged with trafficking fentanyl, other drugs. HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA) Six men in Hillsborough County are accused of exploiting drug addiction to force women into prostitution. Police served a search warrant on Cody Graves' home on May 20 and found methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and a gun inside his home. Give Light and the People Will Find Their Own Way, includes a list of programs available in our area. Get the Android Weather app from Google Play, Tornado in Virginia Beach destroys homes, causes, Take part in the fifth NYS Canalway Challenge, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. WINTER HAVEN, Fla. - Authorities say a two-year undercover investigation resulted in 85 arrests, the seizure of over $12.8 million worth of drugs, and the dismantling of an international drug trafficking organization Eric Williams, 36, Charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine, giving false name to law enforcement, outstanding warrant for trespass, larceny with relation to utility. Mother's Day Giveaway: Win a $2,500 Gift Card to Gold & Diamond Source! Police arrested and charged Graves with possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and operating a drug house. Heroin, Meth, $30K Seized In Drug Raids; 9 Arrested: Police The Florida Department of Health reported 208 deaths from opioid overdoses in Hillsborough during the first six months of 2020. In 2018, Cicciu purchased a residential building in Manchester. They may contain dangerous chemical compounds. More than 3,500 governments, including the state of Florida, filed similar suits which were consolidated in federal court in Ohio where the settlement was reached. Published Oct. 29, 2020. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Booking Details name OQUENDO,FELICITY dob 2003-09-30 age 19 years old height 4'11 hair BRO The goal of the so called "Cross-Border Initiative" was to catch individuals distributing heroin, fentanyl, opioids, and other illicit drugs. It happened at a home on the 200 block of Carline Road. And then, in the summer of 2021, history nearly repeated itself when someone in her immediate family had a similar scare, and according to Snelling, came very close to death but miraculously survived. (Dave Jordan, Spectrum News staff). This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.). The counts of conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin carry a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison and a fine of $5 million. Julius Lane, 34, Hillsborough County House of Correction, charged with sale of a controlled drug (3 counts); Tommy Rodgers, 29, Middleton County Jail, Middleton, Mass., charged with sale of a controlled drug (2 counts). Iwant to make it very clear, ifyou are planning to engage in the sexual exploitation of others, Im urging you to think twice. Total employment, percent change, 2020-2021-1.7%: Total nonemployer establishments, 2019: 148,720: All employer firms, Reference year 2017: 29,153: Men-owned employer firms, Hillsborough nixes gopher tortoise safeguards. @bn9 pic.twitter.com/Lg3shh5nQ9. This matter was investigated by the Manchester Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. "I will not tolerate this illegal acitivity, and I can assure you the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office will continue to invest the time needed to identify all the players and dismantle their operation.". Most of the arrests involved drug activity, including charges for possession, sales, conspiracy to sell narcotics, destruction of evidence, felony possession of a firearm, child abuse, receiving stolen property, falsifying evidence, theft, and violation of bail, all being drug related and involving fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, meth, and marijuana. Want more of our free, weekly newslettersinyourinbox? Florida students rally to be heard in education debate, Pinellas judge denies defendants use of medical marijuana, suggests Xanax instead, Blogger must say if he was paid to publish posts about candidate, judge rules, Disney sues DeSantis, saying it is victim of retaliation. 4 grams of heroin. Im happy with the settlement, Commissioner Stacy White said Monday. The goal of S.O.S. The data also shows that in the first six months of 2020, in Hillsborough County, 1,338 calls across all EMS/Fire Rescue were opioid overdose calls treated with Narcan a medicine that rapidly reverses the effects of an overdose compared to 732 in the same six month period in 2019. Ellen Snelling, with the Hillsborough County Anti-Drug Alliance, has lived the record-breaking spike of overdose deaths, Devastated by drug overdoses, Tampa advocate prays deadly spike will end in 2022. When consumed, these drugs 349 grams of powder cocaine. WebOQUENDO,FELICITY | 2023-04-28 13:24:00 Hillsborough County, Florida Booking. Morbidity and mortality due to substance use, misuse, and overdose have been rising steadily over the past two decades. The suspects, The suit was filed in Pasco County and targeted some of the same defendants listed in Hillsboroughs suit. By allowing dangerous drug dealers to do business inside his building, this defendant jeopardized public safety and broke the law. 35 people were arrested earlier this week after a drug distribution investigation between police departments and officials in New Hampshire and Maine. Not only do drug traffickers sell deadly substances, but their unlawful activities damage the peace and security of our neighborhoods. It was right before Christmas, she remembered. BLOOMINGDALE-RIVERVIEW Nine people face drug charges after heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine and $30,000 cash was seized during police searches, officials said. Police say they seized approximately 250 grams of fentanyl, a quantity of meth, several firearms, and more than $5,000. The proceeds will finance treatment programs and other efforts to combat addiction. CONCORD - Michael Cicciu, 42, of Manchester, pleaded guilty in federal court on Wednesday to one count of possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute and one count of maintaining a drug-involved premises, United States Attorney Jane E. Young announced today. The investigation lasted two years and it was a joint investigation between the FBI, The Department of Justice, Tampa Police and the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office.