BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — An operation targeting suspected open-air drug sales near Mount Vernon Avenue and Columbus Street led to four arrests and the seizure of about 45 grams of fentanyl.
The Bakersfield Police Department said in response to ongoing community concerns regarding open-air narcotics sales and public drug use near Mount Vernon Avenue and Columbus Street, the department conducted a targeted enforcement operation.
The operation ended in four arrests and the seizure of about 45 grams of fentanyl.
Police said the investigation began after the department received multiple reports from community members regarding suspected narcotics activity and people frequently appearing to be under the influence of drugs in public.
In response, the department’s Impact Team initiated targeted enforcement efforts and undercover surveillance to address these concerns. Police said through investigative efforts and information provided by community members, officers identified 39-year-old Jacob Abel Sanchez as a suspected primary supplier of narcotics in the area.
On October 23, 2026, the Impact Team, with assistance from the Narcotics Unit and Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Team, conducted a coordinated operation to find and apprehend Sanchez. Police said during the operation, undercover officers saw Sanchez near Haley Street and Height Street engaging in suspected narcotics transactions with multiple people.
Police said when officers tried to contact Sanchez, he ran away before being apprehended following a brief pursuit.
A subsequent search revealed Sanchez was in possession of about 45 grams of fentanyl, $210, and additional evidence consistent with narcotics sales, according to police.
An operation targeting suspected open-air drug sales near Mount Vernon Avenue and Columbus Street led to four arrests and the seizure of about 45 grams of fentanyl. PHOTO: BPD
Sanchez was arrested and booked on narcotics sales charges and two outstanding felony warrants.
Three other people were also arrested in connection with the investigation.
“This operation underscores the critical role community members play in identifying and addressing public safety concerns,” said in a release. “Information provided by residents directly contributed to investigative efforts and the identification of individuals suspected of distributing dangerous narcotics in the community.”