Drug sting operation ends in 24 arrests

Submitted photo DRUG MONEY: A portion of more than $30,000 in drug money, 18 firearms and narcotics seized by authorities during a large-scale investigation targeting drug trafficking in Hot Springs and Garland County since January. Approximately 10 pounds of crystal methamphetamine, with an estimated street value of $450,000, was also seized.
Submitted photo DRUG MONEY: A portion of more than $30,000 in drug money, 18 firearms and narcotics seized by authorities during a large-scale investigation targeting drug trafficking in Hot Springs and Garland County since January. Approximately 10 pounds of crystal methamphetamine, with an estimated street value of $450,000, was also seized.

A large-scale drug trafficking investigation by the local drug task force and national law enforcement agencies targeting crystal methamphetamine distribution has resulted in 24 arrests and the recovery of $450,000 worth of meth.

Investigators with the 18th Judicial District East Drug Task Force, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and Drug Enforcement Administration have been involved in the operation involving trafficking in the Hot Springs and Garland County area since January 2014, DTF coordinator John Greathouse said Wednesday.

During the investigation, 24 individuals were arrested in conjunction with violations of state and federal narcotics and firearm laws, including eight suspects who were indicted on federal charges in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Arkansas. The remaining 16 suspects have charges pending in state court.

Greathouse noted that more than $30,000 and 18 firearms were seized during the course of the investigation, along with 10 pounds of crystal meth with an approximate street value of $450,000.

"The city of Hot Springs has been plagued with drug trafficking, firearms, thefts and other associated crimes," he said.

"With the arrest of these 24 individuals, numerous drug traffickers have been arrested and are being actively prosecuted by federal and state authorities."

He stressed that the "investigation will continue as the cases are all active and ongoing."

The DTF is composed of investigators from the Hot Springs Police Department, Garland County Sheriff's Department, Arkansas State Police and Homeland Security.

The project director has been Prosecuting Attorney Steve Oliver, who issued a statement commending all the agencies involved in the investigation, specifically thanking HSPD Chief David Flory and Garland County Sheriff Larry Sanders.

"The combined effort between federal and state authorities has resulted in ridding the streets in our community of drugs and firearms," he stated. "All agencies are to be commended for their hard work over the last year in this investigation."

Local on 12/18/2014

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