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. The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has installed permanent drug drop-boxes at four of its patrol district offices. That statistic not only alarms Snelling as someone whos lived through the crisis but also as someone who battles it daily as the board chair of the Hillsborough County Anti-Drug Alliance. 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, 2023 NEWS CENTER Maine. Hillsborough County HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY Deputies busted their 59th grow house of the year when theyRead More Pinellas Sheriff Charges Three in Drug Trafficking Case They were Hillsborough nixes gopher tortoise safeguards. 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 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. It really is almost incomprehensible how extensive the epidemic is, and its hitting us right here in the Tampa Bay area, she said. Heroin, Meth, $30K Seized In Drug Raids; 9 Arrested: Police Snelling said fentanyl, a powerful opioid that often contaminates other drugs, was to blame in both cases. Police say more arrests are expected and that further joint efforts are planned. The counts of conspiracy to distribute 280 grams or more of crack cocaine carry a maximum potential penalty of life in prison, and a maximum fine of $10 million. 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. AIKEN COUNTY, S.C. (WRDW/WAGT) -- Thirteen people are under arrest in Warrenville after a drug bust Tuesday. WebOQUENDO,FELICITY | 2023-04-28 13:24:00 Hillsborough County, Florida Booking. 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. 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. Morbidity and mortality due to substance use, misuse, and overdose have been rising steadily over the past two decades. "We are committed to protecting Hillsborough County. Latest News, Press Releases and Events | HCSO, Tampa FL This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.). "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.". 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. Census Bureau QuickFacts is to combat the large number of overdoses and deaths associated with fentanyl and other synthetic opioids. Police arrested and charged Graves with possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and operating a drug house. Shawn Storer, 30, charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine, tampering with physical evidence, driving while license suspended-2nd conviction and outstanding warrant for felony petit theft. 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. 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 Police say they seized approximately 250 grams of fentanyl, a quantity of meth, several firearms, and more than $5,000. of Justice, Authorities said trafficking took place in Tampa, Kissimmee, At least one person died of an overdose and others were sickened. 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). Drugs, guns, and money seized. Frequently requested statistics for: Hillsborough County, Florida. 40 indicted in massive drug trafficking ring that included 273 grams of crack cocaine. 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. 1998 - 2023 Nexstar Media Inc. | All Rights Reserved. Police seized fentanyl, meth, firearms, and more than $5,000. Overview 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. County drug bust Authorities did not release much information because they said more arrests and indictments could be coming and they didnt want to compromise this case. 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. Mother's Day Giveaway: Win a $2,500 Gift Card to Gold & Diamond Source! Booking Details name OQUENDO,FELICITY dob 2003-09-30 age 19 years old height 4'11 hair BRO In response, Hillsborough County adopted an ordinance to prohibit the possession, use, sale, distribution, production, or manufacture of synthetic drugs. Hillsborough County, FL Mugshots - BUSTEDNEWSPAPER.COM 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. TAMPA Hillsborough County for decades has offered treatment in lieu of jail or prison for some defendants accused of minor drug Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force. Female detectives posed as prostitutes on the streets. "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. 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. 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. By allowing dangerous drug dealers to do business inside his building, this defendant jeopardized public safety and broke the law. "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. The HCSO Public Affairs Office is one of the busiest law enforcement public information offices in the state of Florida. You know, I know the devastation it causes to a family.. Thanks to the hard work of our law enforcement partners, he has now been held responsible for his crimes.. Hillsborough County - Report Synthetic 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. Separately, the countys litigation against Purdue Pharma the maker of OxyContin and Dilaudid retailers Walgreens and CVS and seven other companies continues. 601 E. Kennedy Blvd. 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. Sinful Six arrested in Hillsborough County human 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 [email protected]. Drug trafficking endangers our community in many different ways, said U.S. Attorney Young. This is particularly so when the product that the company manufactures, distributes and sells is a narcotic.. Aiken County It happened at a home on the 200 block of Carline Road. The Hillsborough County Anti-Drug Alliance website includes a list of programs available in our area. 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. Heroin, Meth, $30K Seized In Drug Raids; 9 Arrested: Police TAMPA, Fla. For Ellen Snelling, its still so surreal. When consumed, these drugs mimic the effects of controlled substances and are often manufactured to appear similar to illicit drugs. Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office Massive Human Trafficking Bust. Snellings biggest plea is for those who need help to seek it out quickly. 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. Notifications can be turned off anytime in the browser settings. United States Department of Justice 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. Police searched several rooms under Strawder's name under a search warrant. Philip Mathis, 25, charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Request services from Hillsborough County online 24 hours-a-day, 7 days-a-week 24/7 online development permitting solution. 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. Cicciu is scheduled to be sentenced on August 25, 2022. Data from the County Medical Examiner's toxicology lab through September 2020 indicates that fatal overdoses have spiked more than 30%. Tampa, FL 33602. Well deliver the latest news and information you need to know every weekday morning. ", Tampa Bay Florida's #1 Hit Music Channel and home of The joe Show. @bn9 pic.twitter.com/Lg3shh5nQ9. Complete this form to report the marketing, sale or manufacture of synthetic drugs. 2023, Charter Communications, all rights reserved. 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. HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA) Six men in Hillsborough County are accused of exploiting drug addiction to force women into prostitution. Residents Im happy with the settlement, Commissioner Stacy White said Monday. Published Oct. 29, 2020. 100 bags 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. The proceeds will finance treatment programs and other efforts to combat addiction. Police served a search warrant on Cody Graves' home on May 20 and found methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and a gun inside his home. On one of these occasions, officers also located several assault-style weapons, a handgun, and brass knuckles. Overview. Its almost like you cant comprehend it, said Snelling. The Florida Department of Health reported 208 deaths from opioid overdoses in Hillsborough during the first six months of 2020. Should I tell my neighbors to stop skinny dipping? Register to receive time-sensitive messages about emergencies and certain non-emergency events straight from us to you. 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. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Rabuck assisted with the forfeiture portion of the case. The massive bust was a collaboration between Carroll County, New Hampshire and Maine. "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. This started as early as 2016 and continued well into August of this year. Federal prosecutors indicted eleven people on drug trafficking charges. Download it here. Making sure that victims of federal crimes are treated with compassion, fairness and respect. Here's What Bloomingdale-Riverview Moms Really Want For Mother's Day! Get the best experience and stay connected to your community with our Spectrum News app. 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.. According to the data, fentanyl analogs are now the most common drugs found in overdose victims. 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 Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office Massive Human Trafficking Renee Delgado-Razo, 29, possession of methamphetamine and firearm with an altered serial number. Duringinclement weather, please check wmur closings/delays. Give Light and the People Will Find Their Own Way, includes a list of programs available in our area. Times staff. 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. drug 47 indicted in hefty Capital Region drug bust led Top Stories / Jun 24, 2021 / 04:38 PM EDT. 35 people were arrested earlier this week after a drug distribution investigation between police departments and officials in New Hampshire and Maine. 22, 2016. The purpose of this litigation is not to create some kind of windfall for government, said White. Drug Bust | Tampa Bay Reporter BLOOMINGDALE-RIVERVIEW Nine people face drug charges after heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine and $30,000 cash was seized during police searches, officials said. Want more of our free, weekly newslettersinyourinbox? 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. 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. 35 arrested after multiple drug busts across Maine, New Hampshire border. Manchester, NH (03109) Today. Chance of rain 100%. Monitoring data trends helps assess increases or decreases and aids in targeted prevention opportunities for those most at risk. I was actually at Universal Studios. The purpose is to get much needed resources on the ground to help with treatment, abatement, and prevention of addiction.. 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. Learn More. 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. 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. drug trafficking ring The Capital District Reptile Expo returns! Not only do drug traffickers sell deadly substances, but their unlawful activities damage the peace and security of our neighborhoods. Get hyperlocal forecasts, radar and weather alerts. All of those things have to be addressed, Snelling concluded. This is the result of a twi-year investigation. Low 46F. They may contain dangerous chemical compounds. In 2018, Cicciu purchased a residential building in Manchester. Drug Disposal | Hillsborough County Anti-Drug Alliance 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. All Rights Reserved. It could result in future settlements, according to a memorandum to commissioners. When consumed, these drugs Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. The county eventually will receive its share of the proceeds through the state of Florida. Additionally, the SAMHSA National Helpline for those seeking help is 1-800-662-4357. We will find you, and you will be arrested. Drug After executing the warrant, officers located a baggie of fentanyl and an apparent drug ledger. Dawna Gantvoort, 45, charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, methamphetamine and controlled substance. Hillsborough program aims to expand success of drug treatment court 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. According to federal prosecutors, the traffickers pushed heroin and the deadly synthetic drug fentanyl into the region, causing at least one death. 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. Subscribe to our free DayStarter newsletter. 9 grams of fentanyl. 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. 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, 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. It was right before Christmas, she remembered. Winds E at 10 to 15 mph. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joachim H. Barth. 11 Charged in Investigation Into Drug Ring - baynews9.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 Published Jul. US Attorney. Rain likely. Albany PD: 18 arrested with drugs, guns, money - NEWS10 ABC 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. We will continue to go after people who choose to deal poison in our community. POLK COUNTY, Fla. A wiretap investigation that spanned about nine months helped lead deputies to a countywide drug bust in Polk County. Police seized fentanyl, meth, firearms, and more than $5,000. Iwant to make it very clear, ifyou are planning to engage in the sexual exploitation of others, Im urging you to think twice. They could face penalties ranging from five years up to life in prison. A murder case without a body? 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. Drug The Public Affairs Office disseminates After personal tragedy, advocate hopes drug overdose Largo lawyers death part of uncommon trend. 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. Floridas dental deserts leave millions without access to oral care, Floridas graduating seniors shouldnt face different rules | Letters, No charges filed in the shooting death of 19-year-old University of Tampa student, Hillsborough announces details of opioid lawsuit, South Dakota motorcycle rally carries COVID cases across 5 states. The suspects, The premises were managed and controlled by Cicciu and made available for others to unlawfully store, distribute, and use controlled substances. The massive bust was a collaboration between Carroll County, New Hampshire and Maine. Police arrested Strawder on charges of armed drug trafficking, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a controlled substance and felon in possession of a firearm. 47 indicted in hefty Capital Region drug bust led by Attorney General. 4 grams of heroin. 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. Abuse of synthetic drugs such as bath salts and synthetic marijuana has become an epidemic. DeSantis v. Disney: Who has the edge in a long, drawn-out fight? 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. 349 grams of powder cocaine. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts. On January 11, National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, Sheriff Chad Chronister 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. Letsgetstarted. 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.