ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Approximately twenty people were arrested during a large-scale law enforcement operation targeting fentanyl and cocaine trafficking, dubbed “Operation Burn Baby Burn,” authorities announced.
The months-long investigation culminated in significant seizures and the disruption of a major drug ring believed responsible for moving millions of dollars’ worth of narcotics across Central Florida.
Details of the Operation
- Deputies arrested 17 of the 19-member drug ring during coordinated raids.
- The group was under surveillance for about two and a half months.
- Seizures included:
- Pounds of fentanyl and cocaine valued at $1.5 million
- $50,000 in cash
- Nine firearms confiscated from the streets
Criminal Background and Impact
Some of those arrested have previous charges including attempted murder and other serious offenses, according to officials.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier praised the operation:
“We want to make Florida the safest state in the country to raise a family. That is a promise.”
He noted much of the work involved is “not the glamorous stuff you see in TV and movies,” emphasizing the patience and diligence required to build such cases.
Support and Future Efforts
- The operation was funded by a state program aimed at combating drug trafficking.
- Since 2023, this program has contributed to over 1,500 drug dealer arrests across Florida.
- Officials confirmed none of the suspects are in the country illegally.
- Investigators are actively pursuing leads to apprehend the two suspects still at large.
Source Attribution
Information sourced from:
- Orange County Sheriff’s Office
- Statement from Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier
- Local Florida news outlets