Pinellas County, FL – A months long narcotics investigation in Pinellas County has resulted in 19 arrests after detectives dismantled what authorities described as a large drug trafficking operation responsible for distributing illegal drugs throughout the area.
Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri announced the results of Operation Snow Storm, an investigation that began in August 2024 after undercover detectives initiated controlled purchases of illegal narcotics from suspected drug dealers.
As the investigation progressed, detectives identified additional individuals who were allegedly involved in supplying and distributing drugs across the county.
According to the sheriff’s office, investigators executed six search warrants during the operation and recovered more than two kilograms of cocaine, approximately six ounces of fentanyl, about one and a half pounds of methamphetamine, counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl and counterfeit Adderall pills containing methamphetamine.
Detectives also seized a pill press believed to be used in the production of counterfeit pills.
Authorities also recovered multiple firearms, including an AK style rifle, another rifle, seven handguns, one of which had been reported stolen, more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition and roughly $14,000 in cash.
Investigators allege the organization supplied illegal narcotics to distributors who then sold the drugs throughout Pinellas County.
Several of those arrested are facing drug trafficking charges that carry significant mandatory prison sentences if convicted.
The sheriff’s office said the investigation remains active and additional arrests or charges are possible as detectives continue reviewing evidence collected during the operation.
All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.