9 grams of fentanyl. 11 Charged in Investigation Into Drug Ring - baynews9.com We will continue to go after people who choose to deal poison in our community. 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 drug trafficking ring Sinful Six arrested in Hillsborough County human In 2018, Cicciu purchased a residential building in Manchester. Some of the arrests were made for non-drug related offenses, such as probation and bail violations. Ashley Purvis, 30, charged with conspiracy to traffic in methamphetamine and possession of methamphetamine. @bn9 pic.twitter.com/Lg3shh5nQ9. According to federal prosecutors, the traffickers pushed heroin and the deadly synthetic drug fentanyl into the region, causing at least one death. 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. The goal of S.O.S. Hillsborough program aims to expand success of drug treatment court 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. The collaborative effort started between six to twelve months ago, police said. "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. We will find you, and you will be arrested. Get notified on your phone in the morning with the latest forecast and news to start your day. The purpose is to get much needed resources on the ground to help with treatment, abatement, and prevention of addiction.. 273 grams of crack cocaine. Drug Disposal | Hillsborough County Anti-Drug Alliance Her hope is that things do get better next year to prevent more families from experiencing what she did twice: a brother shell never get back and another family member who almost became one of more than 100,000. Snelling said the Tampa Bay area is generally well-suited with a myriad of drug treatment programs, but she believes more can be done regionally and nationally, including better education starting at an earlier age, more funding for treatment and prevention, better access to quick treatment, and stronger border security to better prevent the flow of fentanyl from Mexico. 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. Her brother died of a drug overdose in Miami. Drug Bust | Tampa Bay Reporter Hillsborough nixes gopher tortoise safeguards. 35 people were arrested earlier this week after a drug distribution investigation between police departments and officials in New Hampshire and Maine. "Todays announcement is a resounding message," said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. The Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administrations Tampa office worked together on the investigation, dubbed Operation Police say they seized approximately 250 grams of fentanyl, a quantity of meth, several firearms, and more than $5,000. The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has installed permanent drug drop-boxes at four of its patrol district offices. 2023, Charter Communications, all rights reserved. Latest News, Press Releases and Events | HCSO, Tampa FL It was right before Christmas, she remembered. 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. Investigators say they were trafficking heroin and fentanyl in Tampa and Kissimmee. Polk sheriff: 85 arrested, $12.8M in drugs seized after wiretap 47 indicted in hefty Capital Region drug bust led by Attorney General. Snelling said fentanyl, a powerful opioid that often contaminates other drugs, was to blame in both cases. Some individuals received additional charges, including drug possession. Friday, Jan. 24, 2020. Booking Details name OQUENDO,FELICITY dob 2003-09-30 age 19 years old height 4'11 hair BRO 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. 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. Drugs, guns, and money seized. A three-month-long investigation by the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office last year led to the rescue of five victims from an alleged sex trafficking ring. The six men were also charged with racketeering under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), which can enhance the penalties. 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 The heroin and fentanyl was trafficked throughout Tampa and Kissimmee, officials said. In addition, there were 916 non-fatal opioid-related hospital emergency room visits and 450 hospitalizations in the county during the first nine months of 2020. Heroin, Meth, $30K Seized In Drug Raids; 9 Arrested: Police The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth. Data from the County Medical Examiner's toxicology lab through September 2020 indicates that fatal overdoses have spiked more than 30%. Right now, so many families are being devastated nationwide. You know, I know the devastation it causes to a family.. 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. Police seized fentanyl, meth, firearms, and more than $5,000. Please note that new Connecticut county level geographies are not availabe within the map. 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. 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. 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. Want more of our free, weekly newslettersinyourinbox? 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. AIKEN COUNTY, S.C. (WRDW/WAGT) -- Thirteen people are under arrest in Warrenville after a drug bust Tuesday. Services for pregnant women and inmates, education, treatment programs, expanding social services, training for first responders and others efforts are some of the uses identified by the memorandum to be considered by commissioners. The Public Affairs Office disseminates Hillsborough Countys share of an opioid litigation settlement could reach $60 million for treatment, prevention and other efforts to combat the decades-long addiction crisis. "We are committed to protecting Hillsborough County. When consumed, these drugs mimic the effects of controlled substances and are often manufactured to appear similar to illicit drugs. It really is almost incomprehensible how extensive the epidemic is, and its hitting us right here in the Tampa Bay area, she said. Tampa, FL 33602. 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. Its devastating: Castro County estimates 18,000 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. The purpose of this litigation is not to create some kind of windfall for government, said White. ", Tampa Bay Florida's #1 Hit Music Channel and home of The joe Show. 22, 2016. Notifications can be turned off anytime in the browser settings. DeSantis v. Disney: Who has the edge in a long, drawn-out fight? 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. Snellings biggest plea is for those who need help to seek it out quickly. 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 349 grams of powder cocaine. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. 4 grams of heroin. Hillsborough County, FL Mugshots - BUSTEDNEWSPAPER.COM 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. 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. The massive bust was a collaboration between Carroll County, New Hampshire and Maine. Additionally, the SAMHSA National Helpline for those Overview In response, Hillsborough County adopted an ordinance to prohibit the possession, use, sale, distribution, production, or manufacture of synthetic drugs. When county officials announced the lawsuit in 2018, they shared data showing Hillsborough reported 579 babies born addicted to drugs the most among Floridas 67 counties, according to the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration. Published Oct. 29, 2020. Residents This is the result of a twi-year investigation. Aiken County Winds E at 10 to 15 mph. 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. By allowing dangerous drug dealers to do business inside his building, this defendant jeopardized public safety and broke the law. 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. Making sure that victims of federal crimes are treated with compassion, fairness and respect. Renee Delgado-Razo, 29, possession of methamphetamine and firearm with an altered serial number. ", According to authorities, including Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister, the traffickers pushed heroin and the deadly synthetic drug fentanyl into the region, causing at least one death. drug Police seized fentanyl, meth, firearms, and more than $5,000. 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. 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. This is particularly so when the product that the company manufactures, distributes and sells is a narcotic.. Board didnt say why. Not only do drug traffickers sell deadly substances, but their unlawful activities damage the peace and security of our neighborhoods. Letsgetstarted. As a practicing pharmacist, Ive watched this epidemic play out first hand. When consumed, these drugs TAMPA, Fla. For Ellen Snelling, its still so surreal. Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office Massive Human Trafficking Bust. Request services from Hillsborough County online 24 hours-a-day, 7 days-a-week 24/7 online development permitting solution. Police say more arrests are expected and that further joint efforts are planned. Latin Kings gang leaders among 21 arrested in 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. Iwant to make it very clear, ifyou are planning to engage in the sexual exploitation of others, Im urging you to think twice. 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. POLK COUNTY, Fla. A wiretap investigation that spanned about nine months helped lead deputies to a countywide drug bust in Polk County. The Florida Department of Health reported 208 deaths from opioid overdoses in Hillsborough during the first six months of 2020. Learn More. In 2016, she got the unexpected phone call no one ever wants. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. 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. The suspects, 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, United States Department of Justice Should I tell my neighbors to stop skinny dipping? 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 Published Jul. WebOQUENDO,FELICITY | 2023-04-28 13:24:00 Hillsborough County, Florida Booking. Overview. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Rabuck assisted with the forfeiture portion of the case. Six arrested in drug sweep in greater Nashua area A murder case without a body? 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.. BLOOMINGDALE-RIVERVIEW Nine people face drug charges after heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine and $30,000 cash was seized during police searches, officials said. Drug 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. 35 arrested after 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. 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. There were some times throughout the early 2000s and into the 2010s that were not really pretty for our society.. Download our app, California Consumer Limit the Use of My Sensitive Personal Information, California Consumer Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, 11 charged in drug bust headed by FBI and Dept. Get hyperlocal forecasts, radar and weather alerts. (Dave Jordan, Spectrum News staff). 2023 NEWS CENTER Maine. HCSO installs drop boxes for unused, unwanted medication 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. Albany PD: 18 arrested with drugs, guns, money - NEWS10 ABC All of those things have to be addressed, Snelling concluded. Police served a search warrant on Cody Graves' home on May 20 and found methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and a gun inside his home. Manchester, NH (03109) Today. Here's What Bloomingdale-Riverview Moms Really Want For Mother's Day! Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force. "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. 47 indicted in hefty Capital Region drug bust led Top Stories / Jun 24, 2021 / 04:38 PM EDT. On one of these occasions, officers also located several assault-style weapons, a handgun, and brass knuckles. 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. Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office Massive Human Trafficking They could face penalties ranging from five years up to life in prison. The Hillsborough County Anti-Drug Alliance website includes a list of programs available in our area. This matter was investigated by the Manchester Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Hillsborough County - Report Synthetic Drugs "When it comes to drug and drug-related crimes in our community, our deputies work tirelessly to find the source of the problem, and through investigations like this one, generate big results," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. 601 E. Kennedy Blvd. "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.". To think of losing anyone in your family over a drug is, you know, its just awful, and it can cause nightmares, and it makes you worry constantly, said Snelling. 424 bags of fentanyl. Duringinclement weather, please check wmur closings/delays. Heroin, Meth, $30K Seized In Drug Raids; 9 Arrested: Police Its almost like you cant comprehend it, said Snelling. The 11 defendants each face federal charges ofconspiracy and drug distribution. Give Light and the People Will Find Their Own Way, includes a list of programs available in our area. 40 indicted in massive drug trafficking ring that included Census Bureau QuickFacts 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 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. Monitoring data trends helps assess increases or decreases and aids in targeted prevention opportunities for those most at risk. Police arrested and charged Graves with possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and operating a drug house. After personal tragedy, advocate hopes drug overdose The Hillsborough County Commission is scheduled to vote Wednesday on a resolution and accompanying memorandum of understanding to begin the process of settling its claim. Morbidity and mortality due to substance use, misuse, and overdose have been rising steadily over the past two decades. TAMPA, Fla. Federal prosecutors have indcited 11 people on drug trafficking charges after a two-year investigation. Complete this form to report the marketing, sale or manufacture of synthetic drugs. Copyright 2021 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Our goal, as the operation name explains, is to intercept individuals, involved in sexual exploitation before they are able to take advantage of vulnerable individuals, andultimately, to deter others.". Mother's Day Giveaway: Win a $2,500 Gift Card to Gold & Diamond Source! Police arrested Strawder on charges of armed drug trafficking, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a controlled substance and felon in possession of a firearm. Rain likely. 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. Times staff. Register to receive time-sensitive messages about emergencies and certain non-emergency events straight from us to you. Subscribe to our free DayStarter newsletter. All Rights Reserved. 35 arrested after multiple drug busts across Maine, New Hampshire border. Well deliver the latest news and information you need to know every weekday morning. Our Spectrum News app is the most convenient way to get the stories that matter to you. Hillsborough Countys share of an opioid litigation settlement could reach $60 million for treatment, prevention and other efforts to combat the decades-long addiction crisis. Additionally, the SAMHSA National Helpline for those seeking help is 1-800-662-4357. Indictments were handed down last month and the arrests were made this week. After executing the warrant, officers located a baggie of fentanyl and an apparent drug ledger. of Justice, Authorities said trafficking took place in Tampa, Kissimmee, At least one person died of an overdose and others were sickened. 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. 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. The premises were managed and controlled by Cicciu and made available for others to unlawfully store, distribute, and use controlled substances. Low 46F. Chance of rain 100%. Female detectives posed as prostitutes on the streets. 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. Largo lawyers death part of uncommon trend. HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA) Six men in Hillsborough County are accused of exploiting drug addiction to force women into prostitution. As part of his plea agreement, he has agreed to forfeit his interest in the property, which is located on East High Street in Manchester. Tampa man accused of selling drugs laced with fentanyl 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. The county eventually will receive its share of the proceeds through the state of Florida.