Nearly 600 pounds of narcotics found in Tucson drug bust
Jul 27, 2016, 4:36 PM
(U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration Photo)
PHOENIX — The Drug Enforcement Administration arrested multiple people in Tucson on Wednesday after a long-term federal investigation targeting the sales and distribution of synthetic cannabinoids, also known as “spice.”
Authorities found nearly 600 pounds of synthetic cannabinoids and a possible spice lab, along with multiple luxury vehicles and more the $350,000 in cash.
“This operation will be instrumental in restoring the quality of life for the neighborhoods impacted by the effects of the “spice” epidemic,” Tucson Police Department Chief Chris Mangus said in a press release. “We would like to thank the federal and local partners who participated with us during this investigation, as well as the community, who has patiently waited for this investigation to conclude.”
The DEA teamed up with IRS-Criminal Investigation, U.S. Border Patrol and local and federal Homeland Security agents in order to investigate people of interest and search warrants within this case.
“Through the combined efforts of local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, today’s arrests truly impact the safety and well-being of citizens within our local communities,” FBI Special Agent Michael DeLeon from the Phoenix field office said.
The investigation resulted in 18 total arrests in Arizona, California and Colorado.