The Grants Pass Police Department and the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) on Tuesday announced a joint operation that resulted in the arrests of 16 suspects across Southern Oregon following the execution of numerous search warrants. Those arrested were charged with drug and weapon violations.
During the operation, law enforcement personnel seized approximately 20 pounds of methamphetamine, 1/4-pound of heroin, one ounce of cocaine, 1,000 pounds of processed marijuana, nine firearms, over $100,000 in cash and two vehicles.
Thirteen of the arrestees are Josephine County residents while two are Jackson County residents and one is from California
The months-long investigation found a suspected group of narcotics dealers was coordinating the trafficking of large amounts of drugs in Josephine and Jackson counties. Detectives were able to gather enough evidence to apply for warrants.
GPPD and DEA -- along with personnel from the Central Point Police Department, Jackson County Sheriff's Office, Oregon State Police, Rogue Area Drug Enforcement, Illegal Marijuana Enforcement Team and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives -- significantly impacted the availability of narcotics in Southern Oregon communities.
The partnerships between these agencies highlight the focus on reducing the flow of dangerous illegal drugs into the area and holding those who harm our citizens responsible for their actions.
Due to the nature of the investigation, further details will not be disclosed at this time.
